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Butler Basketball: 3 keys to success against Ole Miss in 2018-19

By Lukas Harkins

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - DECEMBER 16: Head coach Jordan of the Butler Bulldogs. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images)
INDIANAPOLIS, IN - DECEMBER 16: Head coach Jordan of the Butler Bulldogs. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images) /
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DETROIT, MI – MARCH 16: The Butler Bulldogs band performs.
DETROIT, MI – MARCH 16: The Butler Bulldogs band performs. /

Butler basketball has not lost a non-conference home game since 2012. Will the Dawgs keep that streak alive with Ole Miss coming to town?

Butler basketball is about to experience a major step up in competition. After easily handling Miami (OH) and Detroit Mercy in their first two games, the Bulldogs will be back in action on Nov. 16 against Ole Miss. And while the Rebels are projected as one of the bottom-feeders of the SEC this season, they still project as a potentially difficult test this early in the season. This should also be an excellent matchup to prepare the team for the Battle 4 Atlantis Tournament that follows next week.

In regards to their competition in this upcoming matchup, Butler’s defense will need to focus on Ole Miss’ guards. The Rebels are led by a unique group of contributors in the backcourt that can consistently attack with fresh legs. Most important, senior leader Terence Davis is returning after leading the team in scoring a year ago. Additionally, Breein Tyree, Devontae Shuler, and D.C. Davis are all major contributors in the backcourt and on the wing. These four players all scored in double-figures in Ole Miss’ season-opening win over Western Michigan.

Due to these guards and plenty of versatile talent in the frontcourt, Ole Miss could prove to be a difficult matchup for Butler even if they are underdogs. So, without any further ado, let’s dive into three potential keys to successful for Butler Basketball against Ole Miss. (All statistics found via Sports-Reference and KenPom.)