The Flames concluded their third week of the Men’s basketball schedule Saturday with a win over Delaware State. This leaves the Flames 2-1 in week three, with a loss to Northwestern and wins over Bradley and Delaware State. The Flames continue to search for their offensive identity and to show fans varied levels of performance. 

While Twitter buzz has been a mix of determined optimism and premature pessimism, the Flames continue to even out early season imperfections and weaknesses. The men will get a nice six day break before taking the court once again in Liberty Arena against Maryland-Eastern Shore on December 2nd. 

November hoops have concluded for the Flames, and I am left with mixed emotions. There have been some stand-out moments (thinking of Brody Peebles 24 points against Southern Mississippi) and some less-than-ideal moments (pondering some turnovers). Still, week three was better than weeks one and two, so I think we have reasons to be a hopeful fan base. Here are three things that I learned from week three:

  1. College basketball is a grind and a process. This probably is obvious to most readers, but it’s a solid reminder to us as fans that the Flames are working on their culture and construction like every other team in the nation. These are mostly young men working through life, school, and athletics to achieve the expectations of athletic departments imposed on them. That’s a whole lot of “stuff,” and it takes time to become cohesive and develop a winning product. Partner that with tough games trying to upset teams as the underdog and we are simply reminded winning takes time. College basketball is in the hard first-third of the season where basically every team is forging grit and mental toughness, the Flames included. 
  2. Darius can still score. Darius McGhee has had some uncharacteristic scoring performances. He struggled against Alabama, getting into foul trouble early. Additionally, teams have been able to focus their defensive efforts on isolating him from the offense and forcing him into low-percentage attempts. Still, Darius is making himself known against opponents and working to get opportunities. He eclipsed the 20-point mark each contest this week, which is important for the Flames. Darius’ primary firepower for the Flames is his elite scoring ability, so anytime he is able to give the Flames 20-plus, their chances to win are going to be boosted. Simply put, the Flames really need his scoring efforts. 
  3. Kyle Rode’s emergence. Rode was finally able to break into double digit scoring against Northwestern with a few key three pointers made. Kyle provides wonderful floor-general guidance for the Flames, and an infusion of scoring will only help the Flames going forward. Kyle’s primary method of scoring is through his three-point shooting and free throws. Seeing him find the stroke from three is encouraging. If he can continue to supplement Darius and Brody Peebles’ scoring efforts when needed, the Flames will be able to win with greater effectiveness. 

Week three was a mixed-bag, but the Flames are showing strides of figuring themselves out more with each contest. I believe we will see greater consistency, fewer turnovers, and better individual contributions in the month of December. Let’s keep supporting our guys/coaches and stay optimistic about the remaining non-conference schedule.