BLOG 44: Bulldog men begin GLIAC Tournament at rival Grand Valley

By Sandy Gholston

Ferris State University’s Austin Randel tries to turn the corner against a Wayne State defender during Saturday’s game in Detroit against Wayne State (Photo/Sandy Gholston)

BIG RAPIDS – It’s the rubber match between Ferris and Grand Valley in men’s basketball, and the stakes are high – very high.

The Bulldogs and Lakers renew their great rivalry at 8 p.m. inside the GVSU Fieldhouse Arena in Allendale – with both vying to advance in the Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference Tournament and keep their seasons alive as long as possible. Ferris, which welcomed back Justin Keenan (on Saturday at Wayne State) after an absence of about two and a half games, likely needs to win the GLIAC Tournament to have a realistic shot at advancing to the NCAA Tournament. The Lakers, meanwhile, are ranked 10th in the Midwest Region, and have a decent shot at an at-large bid to the NCAA Tournament (providing it can win a few games in the league tournament).

Ferris and Grand Valley split two-game regular-season series – with each protecting its home court.

The Bulldogs must have a balanced offensive attack against the Lakers to keep Grand Valley off balance and from collapsing in the paint on Keenan. If Ferris can get things going from the perimeter then it greatly enhances its chance of claiming victory. On the road, expect the Lakers to come out with intensity at the defensive end and use that to create opportunities on offense. Ferris’ guards must handle the ball pressure and continue to get the ball where it needs to be delivered – to the hands of the scorers.

For more on Ferris State University’s role in the (2008-09) GLIAC Tournament, visit:
http://www.ferris.edu/htmls/sports/bbmen/0809news/gliactourney09.htm

Also, check back with the Ferris Web site for more information regarding the GLIAC Tournament.

If you have any questions, ideas or comments feel free to contact Sandy Gholston at sgholston2@netzero.com