Last season my personal expectation and goal for the Ramblers was making it to the NCAA Tournament. It was a high bar, considering the Ramblers were picked 3rd in the league pre-season, and hadn't been to the NCAA Tournament for 33 years. So everything after the tip-off against Miami in the first round was emotional profit.
Obviously, it's very unlikely that Loyola returns to the Final Four, especially after losing Donte Ingram (24th in school history for points, 15th in rebounds, 3rd in made three-pointers), Aundre Jackson (all-time career field goal percentage leader), and Ben Richardson (6th all-time in Loyola three-pointers made, 13th in assists, 10th in steals, defending conference defensive player of the year).
Illinois State looks to be primed for a run at the title, with four very talented seniors penciled into their starting lineup.
SIU had several injuries that limited their rotation to seven players for most of the year, yet they challenged for the title last year until the last week of the regular season. All of their main players are back, along with healthy players who sat out last season.
Loyola returning to the NCAA Tournament for a second consecutive year would be a huge, huge milestone for the program, recruiting, fan interest, etc. I think most people would say we're favorites to repeat an MVC title, but that doesn't guarantee an at large bid in the case of a conference tournament loss. Of course I want a repeat, but I think I could be somewhat satisfied with a 2nd place finish, and NIT at least, and a good, positive showing in the player development and attendance category.
But that's just me. What are your expectations and goals for Loyola in 2018-19, and why?
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