For the first time ever in the history of the Midwest Conference, two of their teams are both ranked in the top 25 in the nation. It also just so happens that these two teams will meet in conference play. But let’s not get ahead of schedule; before the 13th ranked Vikings can battle on Saturday with the high-powered offense of 21st ranked Grinnell, they have to face Monmouth College on Friday night. Monmouth would love to get its first conference win against a Viking squad looking ahead to Saturday. But trust that Head Coach John Tharp will have his team ready to go Friday night in front of their home crowd. Monmouth has struggled late despite strong efforts from guard Troy Bennett who is averaging just over 18 points a game. While they are yet to win a conference game they are still dangerous. Grinnell is lead by the second leading scorer in the nation, Steve Wood at just over 28 points per game. Grinnell plays a frenetic game style essentially trapping over the whole court to create turnovers and generate open three point shots. What the system boils down to for Lawrence is a high-energy game with many open looks for their big men down low. Forward Chris Braier tied a school record with 45 points last year against the Pioneers.
Also making a debut at Alexander Gymnasium this weekend will be the inclusion of a student section. After meeting with the appropriate administration, the students have been guaranteed a section exclusively for current students. These students do not mind standing for extended periods of time and occasionally raising their voices in good-natured cheers for their ole LU. Good behavior while appreciating the hard work of fellow students is strongly encouraged.