Can Loyola-Chicago Basketball continue their 2021 Cinderella story?

It looks as if Sister Jean’s prayer is working again for her team. As we transition into the Sweet 16, Loyola-Chicago Basketball has become one of the biggest discussions in the NCAA Tournament. After victories against Illinois and Georgia Tech, the Ramblers have great optimism heading into their next matchup against Oregon State.

The Ramblers were the best team in the Missouri Valley for a reason. The team creates great movement on the floor by sharing and getting open looks. On the defensive end, they remain active on the floor by getting into the passing lanes and forcing turnovers. Going into the NCAA Tourney, the Ramblers have remained with the same game plan with their first two matchups. But now we are witnessing a little more tenacity than we saw from them in the regular season.

Key players

As always, it is Cameron Krutwig who has continued to lead the way for the Ramblers. Through four seasons, Krutwig has evolved into a tremendous leader and is allowing his teammates to play in the comfort spots due to his dominance. In the Ramblers’ first two games in the NCAA Tournament, Krutwig has dominated the paint both scoring-wise and dominating the boards.

The Ramblers use Krutwig to the max. It looks as if his go-to move is to use the dribble handoff while roll to the basket for an easy opportunity. Against Ilinois, Krutwig was able to use his speed and footwork to take advantage of a guy like Kofi Cockburn. The terrific afternoon led to a 19-point, 12-rebound performance.

Moving on in the NCAA Tournament, Krutwig understands his importance for Loyola-Chicago to advance. He sets the tone on both ends of the floor using his “point center” skills to his advantage. If Krutwig doesn’t make an impact on the floor, it’s likely impossible for the Ramblers to steal a victory.

Another key player for the Ramblers has been Lucas Williamson. Although Williamson doesn’t necessarily provide a lot of scoring for Loyola Chicago, when his number is called he has risen to the occasion. Williamson is the offensive threat that has been huge for his team through two games. When his three-point shot is in rhythm, it shows to be difficult to slow him down.

It’s not just Williamson’s shooting that has been a major factor. Also, his movement without the ball has allowed him to receive quality shots on the floor. Williamson has shown to be skilled at cutting around the basket for easy penetration. His involvement of playing everywhere on offense often catches the defense lacking, allowing him to shoot high percentage shots.

And last but not least, Braden Norris, the man who makes things happen as the floor general. Norris’ terrific IQ for the game is unmatched. He’s a coach on the court who understands where to put his teammates for them to become successful.

Scoring has never been a strong suit for Norris, but it gives the Ramblers a plus whenever he makes shots. In Loyola Chicago’s first matchup against Georgia Tech, Norris was able to contribute four three-pointers in the game, including a big one late in the second half. As a player like Williamson will catch the defense’s attention, it is a priority for Norris to knock down shots when given the opportunity. Through two games this far, Norris has not disappointed from any aspect whatsoever.

The Rambler’s Sweet 16 matchup will be another battle tester against Oregon State. As the two teams are coming off huge wins against number one seeds, the game will base on who can execute perfectly on offense and make the right plays. The program made a Final Four appearance in 2018. Let’s see if the Ramblers can continue their Cinderella story.