I had the pleasure of attending a Bryant Bulldogs basketball game for the first time on Wednesday evening as a blog reader named Ray and I were able to score some last minute tix. Unfortunately the vistors didn't have what it took to upset Boston College, but what was a 31 point game with about 12 mins remaining actually turned into a competitive game down the stretch as Bryant rallied to close the game within about 10 points by the 4 minute mark. BC steadied themselves, however, shooting the ball well and making some athletic plays to finally seal the win.
For a while, Ray and I were wondering if BC, who looked flat, would be able to finish off a scrappy bunch from Bryant in search of only their second win in 8 tries. The Eagles looked flat at times, but coach Al Skinner did what he had to do to keep them focused and preserve the win in front of an empty Conte Forum. Had the Bulldogs' shot selection been better this one may have been closer, and indeed if they had an inside presence they would have given the Eagles all they could handle.
All in all it was a low energy game with little crowd involvement, save a few Bryant supporters that made the hour or so drive from Smithfield. Since the place was empty we pretty much had our pick of where we wanted to sit. Thus it surprised me that BC charged $20 a ticket for admission to an event scalpers could not give tickets away for (actually we paid $5). I think the athletic department should consider lowering ticket prices for games like this, or make them a part of a buy one get one ticket plan so they could get a few more bodies in the building and actually have an atmosphere with a pulse. So just for future reference, if you're planning on taking in a game at the Heights my advice would be to shop around online first to see what ticket deals you can get your hands on. Its not a bad way to spend your weeknight, but certainly not worth the $20 charged at the ticket office (however ACC games may be a different story- I've never attended one at BC).
1 comment:
Yo Beave, you were at the Bryant/BC game? I was one of the other 400 people there too!! The Bryant comeback made it interesting. They were definitely outmanned by BC's talent and athleticism but took advantage of how uninterested the Eagles seemed for much of the night to almost get back into it. Great synopsis of Conte. The place was as much fun as a funeral parlor. Come on was the game a secret, where were all the SuperFans?? The attendance and support was embarasing. I did see the pocket of Bryant students up near the ceiling. They had some nice energy and even a half assed sign that someone must have made on the way up to Newton. Nice touch but ESPN or even PBS wasn't going to air this one. You are right $20 a ticket was a rip, cut it down a little BC. Anyway BC's PG looked really good. He had some great no look passes and owned the Bulldog guards when he wanted to. I'd go back for another game to see him again and BC has another pretty flashy guard, #0 a freshman off the bench named Reggie Jackson. You can tell that kid is smooth. So Beave I love college ball and check out games all winter. Let me know if you want to take one in some time, I'd love to get your take in person. Or maybe I could post write ups to Beaver Tales as a guest college hoops contributor. Love the blog baby.
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