Butler basketball is preparing for its early nonconference schedule with a cautious mindset. This stems from previous upsets in the last season against lower-ranked teams. As the Bulldogs gear up to face their opponents, the coaching staff is emphasizing growth and continuous improvement.
Injury Updates and Upcoming Games
Before facing Southern Indiana, the Bulldogs are dealing with injuries to key players Efeosa Oliogu-Elabor and Kevin Ndzie. Their absence will be felt as the team aims to start the season strong.
Challenging Schedule Ahead
Butler’s early schedule includes teams that are not highly ranked. According to KenPom’s preseason rankings, their first three opponents—Southern Indiana, IU Indianapolis, and Chicago State—are positioned near the bottom of Division I basketball.
- Southern Indiana: 279
- IU Indianapolis: 344
- Chicago State: 362
The Bulldogs are heavily favored in these matchups, opening as 21-point favorites against Southern Indiana. While on paper this may seem like an easy start, the team remains cautious and respects their opponents.
Learning from Last Season’s Mistakes
Last season’s defeats against Austin Peay and North Dakota State serve as a reminder for the Bulldogs. Junior player Finley Bizjack mentioned the importance of approaching the game with the right mindset. “We’re very excited but also have an appropriate fear of our opponents,” he stated. He emphasized that every game early in the season feels like a must-win situation.
Focus on Improvement
Head Coach Thad Matta stated that while an undefeated season would be ideal, his priorities lie in the team’s overall growth. He believes that continuing to improve will naturally lead to more victories. Matta mentioned the benefits of playing quality opponents during exhibition games and how those experiences contribute to the team’s maturity.
The upcoming matchup against Southern Indiana is just another opportunity for the Bulldogs to climb the ladder of success. By focusing on progress, Butler aims to make a strong statement as they work toward their ultimate goal of reaching the NCAA tournament.
