NORTHWESTERN
STATE DEMONS
Coach: Mike McConathy | Record: 25-7
Overview:
They won at Oklahoma State and they won at
Mississippi State. They set a school record for most
wins and they pretty much dominated the Southland
Conference, losing just once. The Demons are also
just one of nine teams to not lose at home this
season. No stars highlight the roster, but they are
loaded with depth and balance.
Possible Difference Maker: Clifton Lee is
their best player. He’s a 6-foo-7 athletic wing.
While he doesn’t score a lot, point guard Tyronn
Mitchell is a real key because the balanced attack
goes through him.
On Offense: First and foremost they want to
push the tempo. They will run whenever it’s there.
In the halfcourt they will run a power high-low and
if you deny they will screen. And they are so tough
to scout because they literally have ten guys that
can score.
On Defense: They will play man and will throw
a 1-1-3-matchup zone at you. They will l gamble at
times, taking advantage of their athleticism.
Strength: Seven seniors and tremendous
balance. Lee averages about 15, with seven others
averaging six-nine points a contest.
Weakness: Size in the post wasn’t an issue in
the Southland Conference, but it could prove to be a
factor in the tournament. Mitchell is a good point
guard, but he’s not much of perimeter threat. That
could be exposed in the tournament.
Key to Success: Continue to get balanced
scoring. Do what got you there.
How to Beat Them: You can’t let them get out
in transition. You have to make them work on both
ends of the floor and you have to keep them off the
glass.
