Losing is never easy and it sure isn't fun. As a coach, we have to look at the positives which sometimes are hard to find. As of late, we have competed with some quality opponents. On the road against the most athletic team we have faced this season, the Redhawks went down to the wire with East West University. Up by 8 at halftime, IUN lost a heartbreaker 69-66.

Moral victories are not something that we talk about, but if ever there was one, it was last night. Outmanned with size and depth, IUN went In with 7 healthy players and led the game most of the evening. Nick Panousis played, in my opinion, the best game of his career. Choosing when to attack the rim and when not to. Nick finished time and time again over taller opponents. Aaron Osorio, playing in only his 4th game, battled inside, rebounding and knocking down key jump shots throughout the game. James Beard was diving all over the court, taking care of the ball against intense pressure, and doing a great job of running the offense. Walt Robinson, in his first start of the season, did all the little things needed for us and came up with a big steal near the end of the game. Charles Popielarz knows only one way to play and that is all-out. I have never coached a player that has come up with more loose balls then Charles. Lawrence Thurmond, one of our best athletes, pulled down rebounds over much taller opponents and played his best defensive game of the year. Pete Trgovich, who was the focus of the defense, did everything asked of him. Pete's teammates did an outstanding job of getting him the ball. And when he was double teamed, Pete got the ball to the open man for an easier shot. Telly Panousis, out with an injury, told the coaching staff with 8 minutes to go in the game that he was ready to go in if needed. This is the attitude that is shared by all of the teammates.