The day started off perfect at Hinkle Fieldhouse with all five Butler seniors starting Saturday’s game against Loyola and ended right with the Bulldogs clinching their 4th straight Horizon League title. The middle of the game however, had Butler fans a bit worried for good reason.
Head coach Brad Stevens left the sidelines twice in the first half and never returned. He and his wife Tracy left and visited ophthalmologist Dr. John Abrams. I have worked with Abrams multiple times because he is also one of the team doctors for the Indiana Pacers. Stevens complained of poor vision and an irritation in his eyes so the Butler medical staff proceeded with caution.
It’s obvious how much pain Stevens was in, not to see the class he first coached celebrate the last home game of the season and send the five seniors off appropriately. Hours later, Butler released a statement saying Stevens was suffering from “corneal edema” and his vision should return in 24 to 48 hours.
Without Stevens, Matthew Graves took over the top reigns and led the Bulldogs to a 63-56 victory over Loyola to sweep the season series. Early on, Butler struggled shooting the ball, starting just 2-12. However that improved as Shelvin Mack led the way with 18 points.
The game was close from the outset as Butler didn’t take their first lead until seven minutes into the game and finished the half on a 7-0 run, never looking back.
Something has changed in February for the Bulldogs. They had some questionable losses on the season including Evansville, Milwaukee (twice), and Youngstown State. Butler lost three in a row and four of five before now rattling of seven straight wins.
They have finally gotten comfortable with the lineups and their individual roles. Given, this team is completely different without Gordon Hayward who darted to the NBA draft after last season. This group has gained their composure and are finally taking care of the fundamentals again.
Just six turnovers last game, five turnovers today. Mat Howard getting quality minutes on the court and not fouling out. And this team has learned how to overcome adversity whether it may be poor three-point shooting or without the head coach.
The Bulldogs share the Horizon League regular-season title with Milwaukee and earn a first round bye in the conference tournament as the No. 2 seed.
Before, there was no way I saw Butler tournament bound—but February has changed my mind. The way the team has handled the bumps on the road and remained focused on the end goal is unbelievable. Maybe it’s a credit to how close these guys are. This group deserves a tournament bid and would certainly make some noise in yet another tournament appearance. The seniors won their 110th game together, the 2nd most wins in Butler history.
Best wishes to Coach Stevens who is resting at home. Butler needs you back on the sidelines.