Remember the Past

As Northwestern gets ready to host Benedictine tonight at 7, they should think back to December 14, 2006. On that day a tough-minded Division III school came to Evanston and almost knocked off the ‘Cats. Entering that game 5-2 after tight victories over Miami and Western Michigan, the 'Cats were anticipating an easy victory over an inferior opponent. However, what they got was a tough, scrappy group who was playing in their biggest game of the year, their one shot at a Division 1 opponent. The 'Cats barely ended up squeaking out a 41-39 win as a three-pointer by Wheaton rimmed out at the buzzer. Throughout the game the 'Cats looked unprepared, complacent, and outright terrible. They bricked shots left and right, turned the ball over at inopportune times, and got out-rebounded 36-19 by a more aggressive opponent.
The players seemed fazed by Wheaton's loud contingent of fans at Welsh-Ryan, and were unable to get any rhythm going. I hope the 'Cats learned from their mistakes and will make quick work of Benedictine. They need to put pressure on Benedictine early with hustle and aggressive defense. They cannot afford to let Benedictine hang around all game. If they do, we could witness a repeat of December 14, 2006; something nobody wants to see.