Away With Predictions

by Syd Dille

On a brisk January night, Cleveland State Vikings traveled to the Butler Bulldog’s Hinkle Fieldhouse to play in what was predicted to be a close game. With Butler and Cleveland ranked side-by-side in their conference, the hype unfortunately climaxed before the game had even begun.

Norris Cole was the only Cleveland player that kept things interesting with his 26 points, 10 rebounds, and 2 assists, but who wouldn’t expect it from such a fierce player? Andrew Smith of Butler led the team, challenging Cole with just four fewer points, and an equal number of rebounds and assists, two career highs for the 6’11” sophomore.

With Cleveland State being ranked first in the conference, it led many to believe that the Vikings could end up on top. Butler, however, kept everyone guessing, being a close second. Over 7,000 spectators gathered in a sweltering gym to see how the game would pan out.

The game started with its predicted intensity level. Butler pulled ahead with a variety of different shots, many of which were made by Andrew Smith and Matt Howard. The Vikings were having a lot of trouble controlling the ball, and turned it over 8 times in the first 10 minutes. Most of the widely spaced shots taken in that time flew anywhere but into the basket. Just 2 jumpers and one 3-pointer was made by CSU in that time, with the Bulldogs getting a nice head start.

By the end of the first half, Cleveland’s Norris Cole finally started performing, making several shots, but it wasn’t enough to catch Butler’s double-digit lead. Matt Howard, Chase Stigall, and Ronald Nored all swished the ball more than once, leaving the score at 42-23, with the Bulldogs preponderating the game.

The second half was essentially depressing for everyone geared up in green, white, and black. Cleveland starting shooting and making more baskets, but it still wasn’t enough to pull them back into safe territory. Butler fans relaxed as Andrew Smith put the ball through the hoop repeatedly. The Bulldog’s score shot up, while their opponent’s side of the scoreboard slowly inched higher, to the agony of all the Viking’s fans. The game ended with Butler winning by 23 points, leaving Andrew Smith with a career high for points and rebounds. “I have to give Butler all the credit tonight,” says Cleveland’s coach, “They came ready to play and whooped our butt.”