With one exception, the men's team in the Great Alaska Shootout have already tested themselves on a handful of occasions this season. San Francisco has played five games, Murray State four and five others have played three apiece.
Only UAA will bring a 0-0 record to Sullivan Arena.
Granted, the Seawolves played two exhibition games in California, falling to NAIA teams Westmont College and Asuza Pacific. But that was an eon ago -- Nov. 3-4, almost three weeks ago. The only game action the team has seen since was Saturday's exhibition against an overmatched UAA alumni team.
"We're ready to play someone else," said senior point guard Steve White.
Be careful what you wish for.
Tonight at 6:30, the Seawolves face Murray State (4-0 and perhaps the tournament favorite).
The game kicks off a relentless schedule for the team -- three games in four days against Division I schools, followed by eight games in December, including six in the first 17 days.
Famine to feast.
"We're gonna know more about ourselves in three weeks," coach Rusty Osborne said. "Nine games in (3 1/2 weeks) is a busy schedule."
Reach Beth Bragg at bbragg@adn.com or 257-4335.
By BETH BRAGG
Anchorage Daily News