Wichita State is entering a crucial period in its basketball season, coinciding with finals week on campus. The Shockers are focusing on crucial development as they prepare for the upcoming game against DePaul.
December’s Critical Stretch for Wichita State
The next two weeks will be pivotal for the Shockers, characterized by renewed focus and rigorous practice sessions. Following their strong performance against Northern Iowa, Wichita State has ramped up its training schedule. Head coach Paul Mills emphasizes this stretch as essential for establishing identity and performance standards.
Upcoming Matchup Against DePaul
On Saturday, Wichita State faces DePaul at Koch Arena, with the game set for an 11 a.m. tip-off. This nationally televised ESPNU event precedes three consecutive home games, culminating in the American Athletic Conference play starting December 31 at UAB.
- Wichita State Record: 6-4
- DePaul Record: 7-3
- Location: Koch Arena (Capacity: 10,506)
- Broadcast: ESPNU
Emphasis on Team Growth
Mills believes the lack of class distractions provides an opportunity for players to fully engage with their roles and responsibilities. He highlights the importance of tough plays that often decide games, referencing recent moments where the team fell short.
“If you’re juiceless, you’re useless,” Mills noted. This mentality is crucial as the team prepares for their encounter with DePaul, who boasts a lineup featuring key players like C.J. Gunn and Layden Blocker.
DePaul’s Strengths
DePaul enters the game after a strong start, demonstrating depth with athletes capable of performing at a high level. Their game strategy includes a focus on defense, particularly limiting three-point attempts, which ranks them 12th nationally.
Strategic Adjustments
For Wichita State, attacking the basket will be critical, especially against a team that excels in perimeter defense. The Shockers aim to exploit favorable matchups and secure paint touches, aligning with Mills’ coaching philosophy of driving plays over highlight reel moments.
Future Implications and Goals
As part of their preparation, Mills stresses the need for effort in securing loose balls—a key factor in games. He asserts, “You can’t have uphill dreams with downhill habits.” This December stretch is essential, not just for performance against DePaul, but for shaping the team’s overall identity as they approach conference play.
Ultimately, how well Wichita State utilizes this time will not only affect their upcoming game but also define their trajectory as the season progresses.
