Loyola WBB Ends Regular Season with a Thrill

The Loyola Ramblers gave their fans quite a thrill yesterday. A slow start put them behind 37-21 at halftime. Even the most ardent fan had doubts about a big enough comeback to salvage the win.

Don't count out this team though. They came roaring back in the second half. Loyola's tenacious defense forced St. Louis to shoot a lowly 18.75% from the field in Q3 and 35.71 in Q4.

The Ramblers were led by grad student Sitori Tanin with 17 points and 11 boards for a double-double. It was quite a way for Tanin to end her home career in front of what seemed like half an arena of Tanin family and friends.

The Ramblers finished 13-16 overall, a slight drop from last year's 15-16. The team finished 5-13 in Atlantic 10 Conference play, good for a 12th place tie with George Washington. Last season, the Ramblers finished 8-10 in conference play.

The Ramblers will face George Washington in the first round of the Atlantic 10 Championship Wednesday (March 5) at 11 a.m. CST on ESPN+. The teams split thier games this season, with each winning the away game. The Ramblers won their last two games, but were 2-8 in their last 10. The Billikens lost their last game and were 4-6 in their last 10.

As would be expected from two teams tied in the standings, this is expected to be a tight game. Trying to be as impartial as possible, the Ramblers are capable of a big win. I have seen the team at their best and worst. If they can put together four quarters anywhere near their best, they will advance to the next round. Their second half comeback yesterday was not a fluke. They just need to do that for a full game.

I am predicting a 55-51 win for the Ramblers. I see a defensive game with both teams playing conservatively. I'll be watching and will report back here Thursday. Hopefully, that will not be my season recap.