Saint Louis Basketball: Takeaways from 3-0 start to 2021-22 season

Stepping up in competition

Memphis is one of the top teams in the nation. Duren would have been the prized recruit for about 355 Division 1 programs, and then Hardaway signed Bates. Those are program transforming players.

How Saint Louis handles the hype, the talent, size, and the pressure will determine if they can compete with the Tigers.

These two programs were charter members of the old Metro Conference and competed there for seven seasons. Ford and Hardaway were playing teammates during one summer many years ago.

"“He just needs to be focused,” said Ford. “We get it that it is an emotional deal, but he doesn’t have to prove anything to anyone. To rely on your teammates is always the best answer. Let your teammates help you through it.”"

Nesbitt played for Memphis last season. It will be a challenge to play against his old teammates, coach, and in his old playing arena. He played just three games last year before leaving the team. Ford realizes his 13.3 points-per-game performer could feel a lot of pressure and he wants him to rely on his teammates.

If Saint Louis can continue to play their disciplined defense, attack the rim on offense and follow Collins’ lead, they could be in position to knock off the nation’s number 12 team.