RMU Basketball has a few games confirmed in the non-conference for next season, including hosting its own MTE. Who are the opponents?
After finishing 16-17 overall and .500 in Horizon League play for the first time in program history, RMU Basketball is looking to start off next year strong in the non-conference to keep some momentum. So far, only three games are confirmed, with two of them being part of the Colonials’ first-ever multi-team event being hosted. It’s around Thanksgiving time, with three straight games being played in Moon Township.
Here’s a look at who RMU is set to play and how they match up on paper.
at Xavier Musketeers
The Musketeers are reportedly set to be the first opponent for the Colonials. Last year, Ohio State and its young roster dominated RMU. And on paper, Xavier is going to easily be the double-digit favorite. However, they’re turning over a completely new roster outside of returning big man, Zach Freemantle. They have multiple new guards, including WKU transfer Dayvion McKnight and Rice guard, Quincy Olivari. If they need time to gel, the Musketeers could be vulnerable in their first game.
Jacksonville Dolphins
The Dolphins are one of the slower-paced programs in all of NCAA Basketball and aren’t known for much offense. They lost several key players from the roster, including center Mike Marsh and leading scoring guard, Kevion Nolan. Outside of Gyasi Powell, there’s not much-proven offense on the roster and while the Colonials have to be careful playing into Jacksonville’s hands pace-wise, they should be the favorites at home.
Fairleigh Dickinson Knights
The Knights were the heroes of the NCAA Tournament, beating No. 1 seed Purdue in the Round of 64 in one of the biggest upsets ever in postseason history. They not only lose head coach Tobin Anderson but also the two leading scorers, Demetre Roberts, and Grant Singleton. The good news is that they return a few starters, including forward Ansley Almonor and guard Joe Munden Jr.
Considering the past rivalry between Fairleigh Dickinson and Robert Morris in the NEC, this game was already going to be important between the fan bases. But with the notoriety that the Knights have and this being a key battle at home for the Colonials, look for this game to matter very much for both sides. And on paper, this looks to be evenly matched until we see which newcomers emerge.