Loyola-Chicago Ramblers: 28-5, 15-3 in the Missouri Valley Conference
Head coach: Porter Moser (7th season)
Players to watch: Clayton Custer (13.4 PPG, 4.3 APG, 44.0 3P%), Donte Ingram (11.6 PPG, 6.5 RPG, 0.4 BPG), Audre Jackson (10.9 PPG, 3.4 RPG, 57.6 FG%)
Season recap: The Ramblers stormed out of the gates to an auspicious 10-1 start to the season, including a shocking 65-59 upset win against a then-No. 5 Florida team. Loyola-Chicago hit a rough patch in late December, however, dropping three of four, while starting conference play just 1-2.
The Ramblers found their consistency on defense in January, and were able to dominate their way through conference play. Beginning Jan. 7, Loyola-Chicago won 14 of its last 15 games, earning the top spot in the Missouri Valley Tournament. The Ramblers used strong defense throughout the tournament, holding its opponents to less than 55 points in each contest, en route to earning a bid to the NCAA Tournament.
How they make a run: The Ramblers continue to shut down opponents’ offenses, and Clayton Custer uses his 3-point shooting ability to keep Loyola-Chicago in games. The Ramblers shoot nearly 40 percent from the perimeter as a team and are able to shock one of the nation's top teams.
How they falter: Gathering enough offense has been a struggle. The Ramblers have often struggled to get to the 75-point plateau—that will likely not be enough against the nation’s top teams.
Get The Chronicle straight to your inbox
Signup for our weekly newsletter. Cancel at any time.
Digital Strategy Director for Vol. 115, Michael was previously Sports Editor for Vol. 114 and Assistant Blue Zone Editor for Vol. 113. Michael is a senior majoring in Statistical Science and is interested in data analytics and using data to make insights.