With a 73-63 win over Bradley at Gentile Arena today (broadcast on ESPN3) the Loyola women's hoops team is now 3-2 in conference play, tied for 3rd place in the MVC. Overall, Loyola has won five of its last seven games, including two roadies. The Ramblers, under first time head coach Sheryl Swoopes, were picked to finish 6th in the Valley's preseason poll. The most astounding thing about this is the fact that three of the team's best five players are out for the season with injuries. They're doing it with essentially eight players, banged up and playing heavy minutes.

Granted, there's still a long way to go to the end of the season-- seven of their remaining 13 regular season games are on the road, and the Ramblers have yet to face preseason favorite Indiana State. But some recognition and encouragement for their hard work is due... I'm pretty proud of how they've represented Loyola, and you have to tip your hat to Coach Swoopes for a great job under tough circumstances.