STF Conference Reports: Atlantic 10

(By Brett K)

Welcome to the conference that’s full of surprises! Whether it’s Phil Martelli’s distinct yawn or the fact that Dayton has a 2-3 conference record, there is always a twist in this up-for-grabs conference.


TEAM OF THE WEEK - Saint Joseph’s

As much as this absolutely pains me to say this, it’s got to be St. Joes. After completely “schooling” one of the best academic programs in the nation (Penn) by 40, the Hawks won a huge game at home against UMass, one of the favorites to win the conference. Then, who could ever forget the emotional, controversial, dramatic win against Temple this past Sunday. Was it goaltending or was it not goaltending? That is the question… that doesn’t really matter at this point because the Hawks are now 4-1 and in second place in the conference.


PLAYER OF THE WEEK - Pat Calathes, SJU

No one hit a bigger shot or had a bigger week than Pat Calathes of St. Joes. Pat proved that he’s not the only Calathes worthy of some recognition. After averaging 20 points and 9 rebounds this week, the A-10 named Calathes the co-Conference Player of the Week, splitting the honor with Temple’s Dionte Christmas. If Calathes continues to knock down huge shots, St. Joes. might become the front runner to win the conference. It might also give Phil Martelli a chance to not look so bored.


TEAM WITH THE WORST WEEK - UMass

To prove they were an elite team in the A-10 conference, the UMass Minutemen needed to win at least one of their big games this week…They didn’t. UMass lost at St. Joe's. and were completely outplayed at home against Xavier. They now post a 2-3 conference record which is tied for 8th in the A-10. The Minutemen better become the 40-Minutemen this week as they go on the road to take on Duquesne and St. Louis. St. Bonaventure might have some serious company at the bottom of the pool if UMass can’t get their act together.


GAMES TO WATCH
1/30 UMass @ Duquesne 7 p.m.
1/30 St. Louis @ Dayton 7 p.m.