Bucky Ball is off to a hot start this season, with Samford men’s basketball undefeated in their first three games.
As coach Bucky McMillan enters his third season at Samford, he said he is looking to transform the Bulldogs into a mid-major powerhouse. From 6-13 in his first season to 21-11 the following season, McMillan has created a deep, experienced roster that plays fast-paced offense and utilizes the full-court press.
After the first home game, a 109-85 victory over Anderson University, Samford hosted Spring Hill College and Belhaven University at the Pete Hanna Center.
Samford defeated Spring Hill 80-61 on Thursday, Nov. 10, but the Bulldogs looked sluggish out of the gate, as they were only leading by two at the half. Spring Hill forced low-percentage jump shots and made a normally potent Samford offense seem passive, as they limited post drives to the basket. However, the Bulldogs rebounded in the second half. Juniors Jermaine Marshall and Jaden Campbell led the scoring for Samford with 18 points each. Campbell especially has shown up so far this season, playing aggressively and looking more confident throughout each game.
The Bulldogs shook off the rust on Saturday, Nov. 12 against Bellhaven, as they drubbed the visiting Blazers 90-38. Marshal had another strong performance with 15 points and eight rebounds, and Achor Achor shined in his debut for Samford, tallying 11 points and four rebounds. Achor provides much-needed depth in the frontcourt, as his height and playmaking ability make him an excellent substitute for starting center Logan Dye.
Despite the success of the Bulldogs, coach Bucky McMillan is taking a more holistic approach to how the team is playing.
“I never really look at the score or necessarily who we’re playing,” McMillan said. “It’s just about how we’re doing. Are we doing things we’re supposed to be doing? Are we getting better?”
Samford fans are hopeful that the team has steadily improved throughout the three games, as the Bulldogs are about to enter the teeth of their non-conference schedule. First, Samford traveled to Huntsville to face Alabama A&M on Thursday, Nov. 17. After the road trip, the Bulldogs will host Texas Southern, Valparaiso and Louisiana Tech, three well-coached, experienced teams with March Madness aspirations.
NOTE: This article was written before the Alabama A&M and Texas Southern games. Statistics and records may have changed.
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