The Southern Methodist University Mustangs took a trip to Vancouver and played the SFU Clan tonight, “which allowed for preseason competition and, most importantly according to Dement, 10 extra practices.” (If someone wants to explain to me the rule that allows NCAA teams to come to Canada and get extra practices, I'd be most delighted.) I was there, and the Clan lost by two points in overtime. The Mustangs played in practice uniforms, and, I don't know about how it works in America, but even when you're playing an exhibition, you at least don't disrespect the team your playing by dressing as if it was a practice. It's been explained to me that it would violate NCAA rules to play in official uniforms before the official season starts. Also of note was the post-game prayer at centre-court. The Mustangs must not have gotten the memo that Canadian basketball courts are God-free zones.
That game was also my first introduction to Pasha Baines, whom I'd heard about playing for Richmond High. usually one of the top high school basketball teams in B.C. They're usually so full of themselves that they don't play in weekend tournaments: just league games and championship tournaments. Baines is definitely the leader of the SFU clan, but tonight he couldn't make a layup, not even in the final seconds of overtime. Baines is supremely confident though, and obviously very talented. Bit of a ball-hog though.
The SMU preview for 2003-2004 reads like a free scouting report, and even makes sure to highlight the weaknesses of each player. Opposing teams no doubt use this to flag which player to let shoot the ball and which player to let post up against their big men.
