Atlantic 10 Basketball power rankings: UMass tumbles while Dayton soars up

11. George Mason Patriots – 7-7 (0-1)

The Patriots have played just two games since a three-game winning streak in late December that included wins over Navy, Georgia, and American. Their last non-conference opponent went on pause but they were able to make up for it with a road matchup at the Kansas Jayhawks.

George Mason was game for it, staying close throughout and even making a push late to make it tight. They lost 76-67, with both D’Shawn Schwartz and Davonte Gaines each scoring 15 points, with the other starters in double figures as well.

After a long layoff, the Patriots finally got back on the court last Sunday against George Washington, who come into Atlantic 10 play as the worst team record-wise or via the eye test. It should’ve been an easy game for the Patriots but they fell behind early on, before going on a massive run in the middle to take a lead, and then lost at the final seconds, 77-76.

Once again, all five starters were in double figures, led by Schwartz with 27 points. It’s important to note that star forward Josh Oduro didn’t play, which had a major impact on their depth. However, the Colonials also were without key players, evening things up.

George Mason’s next opponents are Dayton, Saint Joesph’s, and St. Bonaventure in a three-game homestand. Considering how streaky this team has been, expect either three wins or three losses. If Oduro’s reported knee issues are any continued concern, they may be underdogs for them.