Well game 1 is in the books, and to say that the car sputtered out of the gate would be an understatement.  The pirates were late to the party but they did show up just in time.  Both offensives were slow to get it going in the early minutes but that can be expected in the early going with players trying to shake of the cobwebs.   Seton Hall had problems getting into their offense in the first half and had only 1 assist to go along with 10, count em 10 turnovers.  That is not a recipe for this team to win games.  The defense looked good playing with high intensity but at times they suffered from mental lapses that allowed the Terriers to knock down open 3s and take a lead into the half.  Seton Hall continued its monotonous play for most of the second half but was able to cut back on the turnovers, finishing with 14 for the game, and keep up the tight defense, forcing 21 St. Francis turnovers.  In the end the Pirates showed up and your players have to make plays when it counts and that is exactly what Jordan Theodore did.  He put the team on his back and carried them to OT and then to the victory.I cant say that I am a fan of the zone defense that Willard chose to play for a large portion of the game. I think playing a tight man fits this team better personally

but I'm not opposed to giving some different looks as long as players start to close out on shooter and cut down

driving lanes. Yes Theodore played a hell of a game down the stretch but is 25 points on 23 shots to go along with 2 assists really what you're looking for out of your point guard, I'd say no. Pope looked to be usual self posting a double double with 21 and 14 but he missed entirely too many bunnies in the paint, this has to fixed moving forward especially once the conference schedule starts and he will be facing more physical players in the paint.  

Overall this Willard can't be too pleased with tonight game other than the fact they came out with a W but a win is a win and they struggled to get and I see something positive in winning a game like this.  Learning that you can win games late and overcome bad performances.  Although I hope I don't have to sit through any more games like this

For now though the Pirates are 1-0 and face VCU on Thursday Night.