By Alex Mitchell -- STAFF WRITER Selection Sunday has come and gone, and Hofstra won’t be headed to the Big Dance this year. However, by virtue of winning the regular season conference title, the Pride received an automatic bid to the NIT tourney. Hofstra was given the fourth seed and will take on the fifth-seeded George Washington Colonials from the Atlantic 10 conference in the first round.
George Washington is going to be Hofstra’s toughest task of the year so far. The Colonials are a team that’s beaten Virginia, a number one seed in this year’s NCAA Tournament, as well as the Big East champions, Seton Hall. GW is 23-10 on the year as well.
This is a game Hofstra can win. It’s also a game the Pride can lose in a heartbeat. Unlike the CAA Tournament, fatigue shouldn't factor into this matchup. That’s a big edge for Hofstra. Consistent scoring is going to be the difference maker; one scoring drought from either squad will most likely put the game out of reach.
GW’s forward, Tyler Cavanaugh is going to keep Hofstra’s defense in check all game. The Wake Forest transfer averages 16.4 points per game; he’s a major factor in why the Colonials mainly drive to the net for points. This is a type of attack that Hofstra’s defense can handle well. With Rokas Gustys averaging 13 boards per game, the Pride has a very strong inside defense. Gustys is going to battle with GW’s forward Kevin Larsen all game; he averages 8.5 rebounds per game.
Hofstra’s offense needs to shoot and move the ball well. A well-rested combo of Juan’ya Green and Ameen Tanksley are lethal beyond the arc. Having Gustys as a vacuum on the offensive glass is an added bonus. Brian Bernardi came alive in the CAA tournament, shooting 50 percent from deep against Drexel. If he keeps that pace then GW won’t be able to catch up. Some added finesse points from Desure Buie and Denton Koon would secure another NIT game for Hofstra as well.
It seems simple but whichever team shows up is going to win. If Hofstra shoots well and plays smart defense, this is an easy win. GW is a strong squad that plays in the challenging A10 conference. GW is a team that the Pride can beat by 15 and a win on Wednesday would be a huge testament to Hofstra’s abilities and work ethic. The game is scheduled, all Hofstra has to do is show up.