In this episode of the WAC Hoops Digest Podcast, Kyle talks with Seattle U head coach Jim Hayford. The two discuss the non-conference slate the Redhawks have faced, what it is teaching Hayford about his team and the growth that is happening. Hayford talks about Riley Grigsby returning to the lineup as well as Terrell Brown who could have a triple-double every night out and might just do that when Seattle shoots it well. Seattle has two big games left in its non-conference slate against Washington and Saint Mary’s and with the WAC not having a highlight-type win, Seattle has a chance to make it happen.
Hayford discusses the difference between the 2019-20 non-conference slate and 2018-19. Seattle went 12-3 in its 2018-19 non-conference slate. But, four games against Power 6 opponents. Plus, a game at defending WCC champ Saint Mary’s. That’s a tall task for any team. The third-year head coach loves his players and the growth they are experiencing. This is interesting because Seattle is very experienced and veteran group.
But for Hayford, who won his 400th game this season on Nov. 12, it’s all about getting better and being ready for conference play.
Seattle sits at 6-5 and has four non-conference games left before WAC play begins on Jan. 2. The Redhawks take on crosstown foe Washington on Dec. 17. Then, Seattle is back home for a pair of games against Florida A&M and Long Beach State. And the final non-conference game for the Redhawks is at Saint Mary’s on Dec. 28.
The games against Washington and Saint Mary’s are two of the top-10 non-conference games in the WAC this season. Washington has a KenPom ranking of 50 while Saint Mary’s is at 46.
Seattle opens WAC play with a trip to the midwest. The Redhawks open at Kansas City on Jan. 2 and then at Chicago State on Jan. 4.
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