Four-game stretch telling for WSU

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By Kyle Nagel, Staff Writer Updated 8:19 AM Monday, December 6, 2010

FAIRBORN — Just 10 days ago, as the Wright State basketball team prepared to enter what was arguably its most difficult four-game stretch of the season, I wrote in this space that the games would help define WSU.

On its own, the 0-4 record in those games against Richmond, Southern Illinois, Cincinnati and Detroit might not seem very promising. But, think of it like this: Against four opponents whose combined record is 23-10, the Raiders weren’t beaten by more than 10 points, and they had opportunities late in each game.

That’s not very comforting to coach Billy Donlon and his players, of course. With worries from some fans that WSU’s lack of size and experience would doom it to mediocrity, however, there was some promise in this set of games.

“We just have to stop making repeat mistakes,” said WSU senior Vaughn Duggins. “We’re doing the same things we did at the beginning of the year and it’s not sinking it, so we have a long way to go.”

This four-game swipe was a long way on its own, from Hoffman Estates, Ill., to Cincinnati’s Fifth Third Arena to downtown Detroit, all away from the Nutter Center and all including games WSU (3-5, 0-1) trailed by eight points or less in the final two minutes.

The Raiders’ issue has been stopping late runs that help those opponents pass by WSU or extend their leads. Opponents have been too comfortable shooting the ball against them.

Back home this week with games against Air Force on Wednesday and Tusculum on Saturday, WSU will have a chance to get back to .500. That is, if the team can fix those early mistakes.

Contact this reporter at (937) 225-7389 or knagel@DaytonDailyNews.com.

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