Just a couple of years ago, the VCU Rams and the Richmond Spiders had the attention of the national sportsworld as both were marching through the NCAA Tournament. The Spiders fell just short of the Sweet Sixteen, while the Rams eventually wound up in the Final Four, putting Richmond, VA on the sports map in College Basketball. In the two seasons since, little has changed in terms of the competitiveness of these two teams, who now not only share the same city and same area code, but the same Atlantic – 10 conference. Which brings us to the matter at hand.
Led by two great young coaches, Shaka Smart of VCU and Chris Mooney of UR, the two will meet Thursday night at the Robins Center for the first time as A-10 foes. The Rams are rolling along with a 16 – 3 record, all three losses to perrenial players in college hoops, Wichita State, Duke, and Missouri. VCU is currently ranked #19 nationally and riding a 13-game win streak. The Spiders have played hard but have yet to secure that signature win over a brand name opponent during this 12 – 7 season. Could the Rams be just what the doctor ordered?
It’s gonna be interesting as “Havoc” invades the West End Thursday night. Game time is 7pm and will be televised nationally on the CBS Sports Networks.
