Busting Brackets
Fansided

Butler Basketball: Breaking down each 2018-19 non-conference opponent

By Lukas Harkins

CINCINNATI, OH - JANUARY 02: Jordan the head coach of the Butler Bulldogs gives instructions to his team against the Xavier Musketeers at the Cintas Center on January 2, 2018 in Cincinnati, Ohio. (Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images)
CINCINNATI, OH - JANUARY 02: Jordan the head coach of the Butler Bulldogs gives instructions to his team against the Xavier Musketeers at the Cintas Center on January 2, 2018 in Cincinnati, Ohio. (Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images) /
facebooktwitterreddit
Prev
6 of 12
Next
WASHINGTON, DC – MARCH 08: Zeigler #35 of the George Washington Colonials is defended by Foreman #1 of the Saint Louis Billikens. (Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images)
WASHINGTON, DC – MARCH 08: Zeigler #35 of the George Washington Colonials is defended by Foreman #1 of the Saint Louis Billikens. (Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images) /

Dec. 1: Butler at Saint Louis

The first true road game of the year for the team, Butler will be traveling to take on Saint Louis in the second contest of a home-and-home that started last year. In the bout last season, the Bulldogs absolutely annihilated the Billikens by a score of 75-45. However, Butler fans should not expect that kind of result again. On paper, Saint Louis has a much better roster during 2018-19 and could emerge as the preseason favorite in the Atlantic 10 as the season draws closer.

Four of the Billiken’s top six scorers are returning from last season and the team should be much more experienced because of it. Rising senior Javon Bess (13.3 points, 7.4 rebounds) will likely be the leader and best player on the team but also be sure to watch out for sophomores Jordan Goodwin (11.5 points, 7.5 rebounds) and Hasahn French (9.3 points, 7.1 rebounds). In addition, head coach Travis Ford is bringing in some superb transfers.

Related Story. Preseason Big East POTY candidates. light

Dion Wiley (5.8 points at Maryland) and Tramaine Isabell (21.0 points at Drexel) will bring even more talent to Saint Louis. Louis Santos (6.2 points at South Florida) will also be playing after sitting out last season. Unlike some years in the past, Saint Louis will be both talented and deep. If the coaching lives up to the talent on the roster, then the Billikens will be a very good team.

Considering Butler plays them on the road, this could easily be seen as a Q1 or Q2 game in March.