Jerald Gillens-Butler dribbles down the floor as Butler bounces back in their second game in the Battle 4 Atlantis. Photo by Jimmy Lafakis.
DREW SANDIFER | STAFF REPORTER | dsandife@butler.edu
After Butler fans stuffed themselves on this Turkey Day, they were eager to see their Bulldogs play better after falling to the Dayton Flyers last night. Thankfully for them, Butler was hot out of the gate.
https://twitter.com/BarstoolButler/status/1065797900549189633
Junior Sean McDermott proved to be the quick spark as he hit SIX threes in the first half.
Sean McDermott cannot be stopped. He can only be contained.#Butler
— David Woods (@DavidWoods007) November 23, 2018
Sean McDermott from behind the 3-point line pic.twitter.com/DcxcY5Ewn8
— Fake Brad Stevens (@FakeBradStevens) November 23, 2018
He’s now averaging over 19 points per game on this trip. His development as a scorer will be something to watch for as Butler returns to the states.
McDermott is going to be disappointed to leave this country. 12 minutes into the 2nd game here and he's got 30 points on the trip. When he gets this many looks it means the Butler offense is working.
— Jared Grubbs (@ButlerWay) November 23, 2018
But everyone seemed to have higher energy and thus, played much, much better.
What a difference a day can make.
— Shooter Flatch (@HinkleHangover) November 23, 2018
Lil bit of effort and urgency goes a long ways. Making nine 3’s in 20 mins will usually perk things up too.
— Victory Firelight (@ButlerVictory) November 23, 2018
One of the big differences may have been point guard Aaron Thompson’s ability to stay out of foul trouble. With him on the court, everyone seems to be more comfortable.
When Aaron Thompson is not in foul trouble, Kamar Baldwin can consistently play off the ball. Much more consistent scorer/playmaker when operating alongside another true point.
— Lukas Harkins (@hardwiredsports) November 23, 2018
While you may’ve turned the game after a while, Christian David capped the night with a poster that you need to see.
Christian David wishes Middle Tennessee a very happy Thanksgiving. 🐶🇧🇸 #Battle4Atlantis pic.twitter.com/K7MzaKwuvM
— Jimmy Lafakis (@JJLII30) November 23, 2018
After a long waiting to see how the Bulldogs rebounded from a disappointing effort last night, Butler impressed with a 31-point win over Middle Tennessee.
#GoDawgs pic.twitter.com/iboTR341IO
— Butler Basketball (@ButlerMBB) November 23, 2018
And it seems that the team is back to playing its brand of basketball.
Ball movement a thing of beauty. Now that’s Butler basketball! ##GoDawgs 🐶🏀
— Historic Hinkle (@ButlerWarSong) November 23, 2018
To round out the Battle 4 Atlantis tournament, Butler will square off with the Florida Gators on Nov. 23 at 9:30 p.m. on ESPNU.