Dave Reynolds is the only MVC beat writer worthy of inclusion in pre-game notes put out by the school. Dave has covered 531 consecutive Bradley games (starting in 1990-91) entering tonight.
Q. How close to full speed is Bradley guard Daniel Ruffin?
A. I’d say about 80 percent. Prior to the Illinois State game, he had only practiced sparingly so his conditioning is still not quite what it was. But he’s reported no pain from his sports hernia surgery so that’s a great sign for Bradley.
Q. Is it fair to say the MVC is down a notch from the past two seasons?
A. I think that’s fair to say. Southern and Creighton are not the powers they’ve been and the middle of the pack teams probably aren’t as strong as the last two years. But how about those Bulldogs? They’re one of the big stories in college basketball this season and, as a native Iowan, I’m happy for ‘em. They were my favorite team when they went to the Final Four in ‘69. I guess I’m dating myself there.
Q. Better point guard – Jim Les or Daniel Ruffin?
A.
Great question. Ruffin is quicker, more athletic and a better defender than Les was, but probably not as good of a shooter. That’s what enabled Les to play seven years in the NBA, which isn’t something I expect from Ruffin. Either way, they’re two of the best lead guards the program’s ever had.