Butler Basketball Cautious of Low-Major Teams After Last Season’s Losses
Butler basketball is gearing up for its early nonconference schedule, with a cautious perspective after last season’s significant upsets. Coach Thad Matta emphasizes the importance of team growth and improvement as they face lower-ranked opponents. The Bulldogs’ strategy involves respecting their rivals while maintaining a competitive edge.
Early Nonconference Schedule Insights
This season, Butler will face teams ranked near the bottom of Division I. According to KenPom’s preseason rankings, their first three opponents include:
- Southern Indiana (279)
- IUPUI (344)
- Chicago State (362)
The Bulldogs have opened as 21-point favorites against Southern Indiana, and they are expected to be heavy favorites in their upcoming games against IUPUI and Chicago State.
Lessons from Last Season
Butler’s team is approaching the season with a heightened awareness of potential challenges. Last season, they faced unexpected losses against teams like Austin Peay and North Dakota State. Junior player Finley Bizjack expressed a cautious outlook, noting the need for respect towards their opponents.
“I think we’re very excited, but we also have an appropriate fear of our opponents,” Bizjack stated. “It’s early in the season, and these are must-win games.” He emphasized a focused mentality aimed at ultimately reaching the NCAA tournament.
Coach Matta’s Philosophy
Coach Thad Matta is hopeful for an undefeated season, although he acknowledges that perfection is unlikely. His main focus is on the team’s overall development rather than solely on wins. The goal is to continuously improve with each game.
“If we just keep climbing the ladder and getting better, that’s ultimately what I’m after,” Matta said. His confidence is rooted in the team’s performance during exhibition games against quality opponents, which aim to enhance maturity and experience.
Conclusion
As Butler prepares for its opening game against Southern Indiana, the team reflects on previous challenges and seeks to establish a strong start this season. The collective mindset prioritizes respect for opponents and a drive for progress, setting the stage for a competitive and engaging basketball season.
