Are These the Most Exciting Matchups on St. Bonaventure’s 2023 Schedule

Are These the Most Exciting Matchups on St. Bonaventure’s 2023 Schedule

Taking on Defending Champs Kansas in November

Man, I gotta tell ya, as a lifelong fan of the St. Bonaventure Bonnies, I’m super pumped for the 2023 season and the incredible matchups on the schedule. I mean, we’re talking some serious heavy-hitters that Coach Schmidt and the boys will be facing.

Just look at that season opener on the road against the Kansas Jayhawks. The defending national champs! How often does little ol’ St. Bonaventure get a crack at Goliath like that right out of the gates? I’ll tell you what, that’s gonna be one rowdy crowd at Allen Fieldhouse, but I think the Bonnies have the talent and toughness to hang tight.

Of course, taking down Kansas on their home court would take a Bonaventure’s all-time great performance. Not likely, I’ll admit. But just staying competitive against a blue blood like KU would show the country that the Bonnies aren’t afraid of anyone. And hey, it’s basketball. Crazy upsets happen. So you never know!

Facing Traditional Power Syracuse at Home

And another heavyweight coming to the Reilly Center in December – the Syracuse Orange. An old-school Big East rivalry renewed! The Orange crushed St. Bonaventure last year up in the Carrier Dome, so I know the Bonnies are itching to repay the favor on their home court this time around.

Syracuse is one of those legendary college hoops brands that always seems to reload with talent. But the Bonnies have historically played them tight, with a bunch of down-to-the-wire nailbiters over the years. I expect another classic when these two tangle a few days before Christmas!

Hosting Rival Rhode Island in December

In my book, though, the game I’ve really got circled on the calendar is when A-10 foe Rhode Island comes to Olean in early December. The Rams have had the Bonnies’ number lately, winning five straight in the series after St. Bonaventure dominated for years.

Time to nip this losing skid in the bud if you ask me! With dynamic guards like Quadry Adams and Chad Venning, the Bonnies have the depth and playmaking to overwhelm URI this time. And with the Rowdy Reilly Ruckus rocking, St. Bonaventure should be able to defend its home court against a divisional rival.

Testing Themselves vs ACC Foe Pitt

Before A-10 play heats up, St. Bonaventure will also host an intriguingACC opponent, welcoming Pitt to town a few days after Christmas. The Panthers are tough as nails and will definitely be a yardstick to measure where the Bonnies stand heading into conference games.

Pitt knocked off St. Bonaventure on a buzzer beater in their last meeting two seasons ago, so I’m betting the Brown and White will be fired up to exact a little payback. If they can score the upset over an ACC foe, it could give the Bonnies a major confidence boost before league play.

Welcoming Atlantic 10 Rival Dayton in January

Once the A-10 schedule tips off in January, the Bonnies will get to host another long-time conference power – the Dayton Flyers. UD has been a thorn in St. Bonaventure’s side recently, winning 10 of the last 12 matchups.

But with All-A-10 big man Osun Osunniyi back for his senior year, the Bonnies finally have the interior presence to match Dayton’s size and physicality. A raucous home crowd could help push St. Bonaventure over the top against our arch-rivals!

Avenging Loss to VCU in Rematch

A month later, St. Bonaventure will be looking for payback against another A-10 foe – VCU. The Rams embarrassed the Bonnies on their home floor last year en route to a runaway victory.

I expect Coach Schmidt will have the guys fully prepared this time around to handle VCU’s notorious “Havoc” defense. And pulling off the upset at VCU would be a huge statement as the Bonnies try to make a push for an NCAA tournament bid down the stretch.

Measuring Up Against Fellow A-10 Contender Richmond

The Bonnies will face another stiff test late in February when they head on the road to take on an ascending Richmond squad. The Spiders shared the A-10 title last year and throttled St. Bonaventure in their one matchup.

So this will be a good chance to gauge if the Bonnies can hang with the A-10’s elite. Quadry Adams’ head-to-head battle with Richmond star Jacob Gilyard might just determine which school prevails in a likely defensive struggle.

Battling Cross-Town Rival Canisius in December

Amidst all these marquee matchups, let’s not overlook the Bonnies’ annual tussle with cross-town rival Canisius in December. The Golden Griffins have hit the skids the last few years, but you can throw the records out when these two local foes collide.

Canisius will be hungry to knock off their higher profile neighbors. So the Bonnies need to avoid a flat effort against an inspired underdog. Take care of business, and St. Bonaventure can maintain local bragging rights for another year!

Facing Off with West Coast Power St. Mary’s

Now this is an out-of-conference clash I find intriguing – a BracketBusters type home date with national power St. Mary’s. The Gaels are an annual NCAA tournament threat out of the West Coast Conference.

So the Bonnies will find out quickly if they can run with the big boys when these two hook up at the Reilly Center. St. Mary’s boasts a crafty veteran backcourt, but the Bonnies should be able to match them with Quadry Adams distributing and gunner Chad Venning filling it up.

Opening A-10 Play Against Dangerous Duquesne

When the A-10 schedule tips off in January, St. Bonaventure faces a tricky opening assignment against a talented Duquesne squad. The Dukes backcourt of Ohio State transfer Musa Jallow and sharpshooter Leon Ayers will test the Bonnies perimeter defense.

Duquesne is a darkhorse to finish in the A-10’s top tier this year. So starting league play with a tight victory over the Dukes could give St. Bonaventure’s confidence a spark heading into the grind of conference games.

Going on the Road to Face George Mason in February

February brings a tough test for the Bonnies when they have to travel to George Mason, which is always a hornet’s nest for visitors. The Patriots have beefed up their roster with some talented transfers and should be much improved.

Mason’s hyped freshman guard Elijah Fisher might emerge as an A-10 star this year. Containing his explosiveness while dealing with a rabid home crowd gives this game serious upset potential. Coach Schmidt will have the Bonnies ready though to grit out a tough road win.

Hosting Power 5 Opponent Florida State in November

Looking back at the non-conference schedule, I almost overlooked another visit from a Power 5 school – the Florida State Seminoles. Leonard Hamilton’s squad is expected to be ranked in the Top 25 and provide a stiff early test for the Bonnies.

FSU has elite size and athleticism at every position, so containing them on the glass will be critical. If the Bonnies can find some outside shooting to loosen up the Noles’ smothering defense, they could pull off a program-boosting victory.

Taking on In-State Foe Buffalo in November

And I’d be remiss not to mention the Bonnies’ opening night tilt with up-and-coming Buffalo right here in Olean. The Bulls are moving up in the MAC ranks and are always tough to tangle with.

With two nearby schools, I expect a crowded, bipartisan Reilly Center crowd for this one. Trading punches with a feisty underdog should be a good final tune-up for the Bonnies before the schedule gets brutal. Run them off the court Coach Schmidt!

Playing at Improved La Salle Squad in January

Here’s another A-10 foe I could see giving the Bonnies some problems – a road date against a rebuilt La Salle team in January. The Explorers brought in a bunch of talented transfers and might be poised for a breakout year.

Never fun walking into a rival’s gym when they’re all jacked up with a new coach and roster. St. Bonaventure will need to lean on their senior leadership to escape Philly with a tough victory.

Closing Regular Season at Home vs Davidson in March

Wow, what a loaded slate of games! Just scanning the full schedule gets me hyped. But you know I’ve definitely got March 4th circled already – closing out the regular season by hosting Davidson.

The Wildcats have been the class of the A-10 lately, so the Bonnies would love to head into the conference tournament with a signature win. Knocking off Davidson on Senior Day would definitely send a message to the rest of the league!

Man, I could go on and on about these matchups. Bottom line – with powers like Kansas, Syracuse and FSU coming to town, plus an absolute buzz saw of an A-10 schedule, this might just be the most exciting season in St. Bonaventure history. Go Bonnies! Let’s shock some people in 2023!

Facing Traditional Power Syracuse at Home

You know, looking over this killer slate of games for the Bonnies, the matchup with Syracuse definitely sticks out to me. Getting to welcome an old-school national powerhouse like the Orange into the Reilly Center is going to be absolutely electric! Just thinking about it gives me chills.

Cuse is one of those iconic college basketball brands that needs no introduction. The history and tradition of Syracuse hoops speaks for itself. They’re always rocking those classic orange threads and trapping full court. You think of college basketball royalty, it’s like Kentucky, North Carolina, Duke, Kansas…and the ‘Cuse is right in that mix.

So for a mid-major like the Bonnies to host such a heavyweight at home, in little ol’ Olean, is a huge deal. It doesn’t happen very often. Coach Boeheim doesn’t just take his show on the road to any small gym, you know. The Rowdy Reilly Ruckus better be in rare form to rattle those Orange!

I still remember Syracuse coming to town my sophomore year back in 2010 when they had Wes Johnson, Andy Rautins, and Scoop Jardine. Man, what a game! The Bonnies scrapped and clawed back from 16 down before falling just short. The Dome was rocking that day. Gives you chills just picturing it again.

Now Coach Schmidt’s current squad has a chance to pull off what that 2010 team couldn’t quite get done. With Osun Osunniyi anchoring the middle this year, St. Bonaventure finally has the length and athleticism to match Syracuse’s size and length. Could be the difference maker!

Cuse will still roll out that stifling 2-3 zone though, which can be a nightmare to score against if you’re not hitting outside shots. So Chad Venning and the Bonnies’ gunners need to be locked in from deep. Penetrate, kick, and knock it down. Easier said than done, but that’s the recipe for success against Boeheim’s zone.

Honestly, just looking through this 2023 schedule gets me so pumped for St. Bonaventure basketball this winter. But circling that Syracuse game in red marker…now that’s a matchup I’ve been looking forward to since the schedule dropped. A tale of two programs – little underdog St. Bonaventure trying to take down the mighty Orange. That’s what college hoops is all about baby! Let’s go Bonnies!!

And wow, looking at some of these other incredible games on tap…Kansas and their three-headed monster in Allen Fieldhouse to open the season. Are you kidding me? I’ll have to remember to pack my heart medication for that one!

Then we’ve got national powerhouse St. Mary’s visiting later in November. The Gaels have been rolling through the WCC for years, so they’ll provide a great non-conference litmus test.

And how about Pitt coming to town? An ACC team playing at the Reilly Center is always special. That’s another opportunity for Bonaventure to score a power conference pelt.

Plus we’ve got the usual tough Atlantic 10 duels with VCU, Dayton, Davidson and the rest of the league’s elite. Just looking at the Bonnies’ conference schedule, there won’t be any easy nights in A-10 play, that’s for sure.

Honestly, I could write a book about all these legendary matchups on St. Bonaventure’s schedule this year. It seems like every game jumps off the page as must-see. Get your popcorn ready, because the Bonnies are going to be must-watch TV this winter!

With the talent Coach Schmidt is trotting out, and the rowdies at the Reilly Center backing them, I think this St. Bonaventure team has the pieces to compete with any of these heavyweights. Let’s go shock the world Bonnies! I’ll see you courtside, cheering my face off. Go Brown and White!

Hosting Rival Rhode Island in December

Alright, let’s dive into another matchup I’ve had circled on my calendar for months – the Bonnies battling Rhode Island at home in early December. Anytime these two passionate A-10 rivals hook up, you know sparks are gonna fly!

In my book, URI is right up there with Dayton and VCU among St. Bonaventure’s fiercest conference foes. There’s just always an extra edge when the Bonnies and Rams face off. Both programs have had major success in recent decades, so bragging rights are always on the line.

Now after the Bonnies dominated the rivalry for years, Rhode Island has actually taken control lately, winning five straight over St. Bonaventure. That stings for us Bonnies diehards, let me tell you. Time for Coach Schmidt’s guys to restore the balance in this A-10 duel!

With electric guards like Quadry Adams and Chad Venning, I really like the personnel matchups for the Bonnies this time around. URI has a couple talented scorers like Malik Martin and Jeremy Sheppard, but St. Bonaventure has the depth in the backcourt to overwhelm them.

For the Bonnies to reassert dominance over the Rams, they’ll need to control tempo and limit turnovers. As long as Quadry and the boys play poised under pressure, I don’t see Rhode Island being able to match buckets with them in a shootout.

And playing this rivalry game at home before winter break is huge. The Rowdy Reilly Ruckus will be going bonkers! Nothing I love more than rushing the court after we knock off Rhody. Let’s start a new winning streak over the Rams!

Man, I still remember some classic showdowns with URI over the years. That nailbiter loss in the A-10 finals back in 2012 when Andrew Nicholson was dominating. What a heartbreaker!

Or the last time St. Bonaventure hosted Rhode Island – an overtime thriller on Senior Day that I’m pretty sure took a few years off my life. Bonnies finally prevailed after Jay Adams went off for like 30 points.

Here’s hoping this next matchup with Rhody is another instant classic! With the way both programs are stocked with talent, it should make for 40 minutes of must-see basketball.

Let’s pack the Reilly Center to the rafters like the old days, get rowdy, and remind Rhode Island who still runs the A-10! I want those Rams leaving Olean with their tails between their legs after the Bonnies take it to ’em on our home floor. Let’s go Brown and White!

Man, I’m getting hyped just thinking about this loaded schedule. Syracuse, Kansas, Florida State…and those are just the non-conference heavyweights!

Once A-10 play starts, the Bonnies battle-tested lineup will be primed to wage war every night, especially on home court. I love seeing proud programs like VCU and Davidson coming to the RC. We don’t back down from anybody!

And you know Coach Schmidt will have the guys hungry and prepared to defend their home floor against any challenger. Quadry Adams is the type of senior leader and floor general who can rally the Bonnies when the Reilly Center is rocking.

I could really go on all day about these marquee matchups for the Bonnies this season. Top to bottom, this is arguably the most challenging schedule in program history. Just what the diehards in Olean live for!

Let the countdown begin. I’ll see you courtside opening night against Buffalo, loud and proud in my brown and white. Go Bonnies, it’s time to shock the world!

Testing Themselves vs ACC Foe Pitt

Looking ahead at the Bonnies’ slate of non-conference battles, that late December showdown with Pitt definitely stands out to me as a key early season test. Anytime you can welcome an ACC squad to your home arena, it’s a big opportunity.

Now Pitt basketball might have lost a little luster lately, but don’t get it twisted – the Panthers program still has plenty of tradition and talent. They were annual Big East contenders not that long ago after all, making the NCAA Tournament 10+ straight years under Ben Howland and Jamie Dixon.

So even if they’ve dipped in the ACC standings the last few seasons, Pitt hoops is still capable of loading up on elite recruits and transfers and getting back to the top tier soon. This game will be no cupcake for the Bonnies, that’s for sure.

These two teams have had some old-school Big East style slugfests over the years, including a buzzer beater loss for St. Bonaventure in their last meeting. I expect another knock-down, drag-out battle when they clash again at the Reilly Center.

Pitt likes to grind you down on defense with their physicality and athleticism at every position. So Osun Osunniyi and the Bonnies will need to match their toughness on the boards to avoid getting pushed around down low.

On offense, the Panthers are most dangerous in transition where they can convert quick buckets before your defense gets set. St. Bonaventure has to avoid sloppy turnovers and limit Pitt’s easy transition looks.

At home in front of the Rowdy Reilly Ruckus, I think the Bonnies have a great shot to upend their ACC foes this time around. But they’ll need to bring intensity and focus for a full 40 minutes against a dangerous Pitt squad.

These are the types of statement out-of-conference wins that could really enhance St. Bonaventure’s NCAA Tournament resume come March. So there’s a lot on the line beyond just bragging rights.

And for the Bonnies’ veteran guards like Quadry Adams and Chad Venning, it’s one last chance to topple a power conference team on their home floor before graduating. You know Quadry would love to put Pitt in the rearview after they knocked off the Bonnies on a last second shot two years ago.

This St. Bonaventure roster definitely seems built to hang with an athletic squad like the Panthers. Osun gives them a defensive anchor, while Quadry and Chad provide savvy backcourt play. The pieces are there to pull the upset!

I expect the Reilly Center crowd to be absolutely bonkers for this one after Christmas. Students are still on break, so us diehard locals will pack the stands and bring the noise. Let’s will the Bonnies to a signature non-conference win over Pitt!

The schedule is filled with so many other tantalizing matchups too. Like taking on college hoops royalty in Kansas to open the season. Now that will be a moment for the ages seeing the Bonnies take the floor at Allen Fieldhouse.

And of course A-10 play will be a battle every single night. VCU’s press, Davidson’s shooting, Rhode Island’s grit…the Bonnies will be tested early and often once conference action is underway.

But circling back, first things first – taking down Pitt would be the perfect way to tune up for league play. Let’s set the tone in Olean and show the ACC that the little Bonnies aren’t afraid of Goliath!

Welcoming Atlantic 10 Rival Dayton in January

Now that we’ve covered some of the tantalizing non-conference games on the docket, let’s dive into the A-10 slate. And right off the bat in January, the Bonnies get a huge rivalry matchup hosting perennial power Dayton.

Just seeing the Flyers coming to town always gets my blood pumping as a St. Bonaventure fan! UD and the Bonnies have been jostling for position atop the Atlantic 10 for over a decade now. The familiarity and competitiveness between these programs makes each meeting must-see TV.

And with how topsy-turvy this rivalry has been lately, with Dayton winning 10 of the last 12 overall, you know the Bonnies will be fired up to defend their home floor against the Flyers this time around.

These are always back-and-forth battles, but hosting UD at the Reilly Center gives St. Bonaventure a big edge. The Rowdy Reilly Ruckus just seems to rattle the Flyers year after year – all that chaotic noise and energy in the intimate gym.

Now last season up in Dayton, the Flyers’ size and physicality wore down the Bonnies in a double-digit loss. But with Osun Osunniyi anchoring the middle now, St. Bonaventure finally has someone to match Dayton’s bulk.

Rebounding and defensive stops – that’s always the key when these arch-rivals clash. If the Bonnies can hold their own on the glass and get into transition, their athleticism could overwhelm methodical Dayton.

And you know senior Quadry Adams will be pumped to face off with Dayton’s backcourt stud Daron Holmes one last time. Those two have had some epic showdowns over the years as both blossomed into A-10 stars.

I’m telling you, the first weekend of January is already circled on my calendar. There’s no better way to ring in the New Year than watching the Bonnies battle their fiercest conference foe!

If St. Bonaventure can score the upset over mighty Dayton, it could propel them on a big run in A-10 play as March Madness nears. This game always carries major seeding implications too.

Coach Schmidt’s experienced, versatile roster seems built to finally topple the Flyers this year. But we can’t overlook Dayton’s young talent like the aforementioned Holmes and fellow All-Rookie selection Mike Sharavjamts.

No doubt it’ll be another classic showdown between these A-10 juggernauts! I can already envision the sea of rowdy St. Bonaventure students waving cardboard cutouts to distract those Flyers free throws. Let’s pack the Reilly Center and will our Bonnies to a season-changing W!

Man, just scanning the full slate of games gets me hyped. Syracuse, Rhode Island, VCU…every matchup just leaps off the page as must-see. This team and these fans are ready to shake things up in the A-10!

If the Bonnies can hold serve at home against the contenders, they could compete for the regular season crown. And there’s no better way to set the tone than taking down perennial favorite Dayton right out of the gates. Let’s shock the A-10 world Bonnies!

Avenging Loss to VCU in Rematch

As we continue previewing this loaded A-10 slate, another matchup that sticks out is the Bonnies’ February showdown at VCU. After the Rams embarrassed St. Bonaventure on their home floor last season, revenge will definitely be on the mind this time around.

Now anytime you face VCU, you know that havoc-wreaking full court press will be waiting. The Rams’ frenzied defensive style under Coach Rhoades is always tough to handle. Let’s just say they aren’t afraid to get in-your-face physical either.

So traveling to Richmond to face that frantic press with the rowdy VCU fans going bonkers is about as hostile a road environment as it gets in the A-10. The Bonnies will need thick skin and composure under fire.

Last year though, St. Bonaventure totally lost their poise when VCU came to town. The Rams pressed and trapped the Bonnies into 25 turnovers, blowing them out by 30+ points. It was downright ugly, one of the worst losses in program history.

You know Coach Schmidt will remind his veteran group about that embarrassment all year long as motivation. Quadry Adams and Chad Venning still have nightmares about the way VCU overwhelmed them on their own court.

With how talented and experienced this Bonnies roster is, they’re more than capable of turning the tables on the Rams this time around. It just comes down to handling that tenacious defensive intensity and feeding off that hostile road energy instead of letting it rattle you.

In a raucous arena like the Siegel Center, the Bonnies will need their leaders like Quadry and Osun Osunniyi to step up and produce. Tune out the taunts and lean on your preparation. I believe Coach Schmidt will have the guys mentally tough and ready to steal one on VCU’s home floor.

These are the types of gritty road performances that build an NCAA Tournament resume come March. Last season when Dayton won at VCU, it really boosted their profile in the eyes of the selection committee.

So if St. Bonaventure wants to state their case as an A-10 title contender, going on the road and upending one of the league’s perennial powers would say it loud and clear. Let’s exorcise last year’s blowout loss Bonnies!

And after they hopefully topple VCU on their own floor, think how hyped the Reilly Center crowd will be when the Rams have to come to Olean for the rematch later in February. We’ll be ready to return the favor after the Bonnies get some payback.

I’m telling you, this A-10 slate is going to be all-out war night after night for the Bonnies. Every matchup looks intriguing, from the Duquesne opener to the Davidson finale. Buckle those seatbelts Brown-and-White faithful!

But taking down VCU on the road could be the defining win that elevates St. Bonaventure from A-10 contender to A-10 favorite in 2023. Let’s shock those Rowdy Rams on their home floor Bonnies!

Measuring Up Against Fellow A-10 Contender Richmond

As we take a deep dive into the Bonnies’ A-10 schedule, that late February showdown at Richmond definitely stands out as well. The Spiders established themselves as a conference powerhouse last season, and they return a loaded roster ready to contend again.

Richmond blitzed through the A-10 last year, going 15-3 to share the regular season title with Davidson. And they flat-out embarrassed St. Bonaventure in their lone meeting, crushing the Bonnies by 20+ points on our own home court.

So heading up to Richmond for the rematch will be a major measuring stick to see if this year’s Bonnies team has what it takes to unseat the A-10’s elite. After last year’s blowout, Coach Schmidt’s guys should have plenty of motivation.

In recent years, Richmond has given St. Bonaventure fits with their slow-paced, defensive grind-it-out style. Points always seem hard to come by against the Spiders.

But this Bonnies squad just might have the offensive firepower to break through Richmond’s wall. With Quadry Adams deftly orchestrating and junior Chad Venning filling it up from deep, they can put crooked numbers on the board against anyone.

Still, Richmond’s star-studded backcourt will be a chore to contain. Jacob Gilyard is arguably the A-10’s top floor general, while Tyler Burton and Grant Golden give the Spiders elite scoring options.

So the Bonnies will have their hands full defensively trying to contain Richmond’s versatile attack. Keeping Gilyard out of the lane and chased off the 3-point line is critical, otherwise he’ll pick you apart.

Playing at Richmond is always tough with their rowdy fans packed into the cozy Robins Center. But this senior-led Bonnies group seems built for winning grind-it-out games on the road. Nothing rattles Quadry Adams!

And being tested in a hostile environment like Richmond is ideal preparation for March Madness. These are the types of games that battle-harden you for the NCAA Tournament pressure cooker.

So while an upset over the defending A-10 champs on their home floor is a tall task, I wouldn’t count out the Bonnies. Coach Schmidt will have them ready to make a statement and show they belong in the league’s upper echelon now too.

After they hopefully pass the Spider test, the Bonnies will be feeling all kinds of confidence headed into March. Quadry and the boys seemed poised to finally get over the Richmond hump this year!

Man, I just can’t say enough about the quality of this 2023 schedule. Kansas, Syracuse, Rhode Island, VCU…every matchup just jumps off the page. Should make for an unforgettable season on the hardwood this winter in Olean!

Let’s pack the Reilly Center and give our Bonnies a lift when these heavyweights come to town. I’ll see you courtside Brown-and-White diehards – it’s time to shock the world this season!

Battling Cross-Town Rival Canisius in December

Now I know in the midst of high-profile games against Kansas, Syracuse, and A-10 elites, it’s easy to overlook the Bonnies’ annual tussle with crosstown rival Canisius. But make no mistake – when these two local foes collide in December, you can throw out the records.

Ever since St. Bonaventure and Canisius revived their series back in 2008, these Western New York showdowns have always brought out the best in both programs. The energy and intensity reminds you of an old-school Big 5 matchup back in the heyday of Philly college hoops.

And even though the Bonnies have emerged as the dominant program locally, Canisius still gets up to play spoiler against their higher profile neighbors. The Golden Griffins would love nothing more than to cut down the bigger school in their backyard.

I’ll never forget that stunning upset Canisius scored at the Reilly Center back in 2014. St. Bonaventure was cruising towards an NCAA bid before the Griffs stunned them on Senior Day. So the Bonnies can never take Canisius lightly.

Now the last few seasons, the Bonnies have reasserted control with blowout victories as the Griffs sunk towards the bottom of the MAAC standings. But some rivalry mojo always seems to give Canisius a boost versus St. Bonaventure.

This year’s matchup should be another spirited local showdown. Canisius has a new coach, so you know they’ll be hungry to make a statement against the nationally ranked Bonnies. And the Griff’s dynamic guard Tahj Staveskie can erupt for 30+ points on any given night.

For St. Bonaventure, avoiding any letdown and taking care of business against their fired-up underdog neighbor is key. Quadry Adams and Osun Osunniyi have to set the tone and apply the defensive clamps early.

The Reilly Center crowd may be a bit subdued with students away, but us year-round diehards will show out to cheer on the Brown and White! I expect a bipartisan crowd that brings great energy when these two local rivals square off.

And the Bonnies know they’ll need every edge they can get once A-10 play revs up. So tuning up with a hard-fought rivalry win over Canisius would be great preparation for the conference gauntlet ahead.

I’m telling you, upsets happen in rivalry games, especially when you have a hungry underdog gunning for local bragging rights. So the Bonnies need to bring their A-game and avoid that upset bug when the Griffs come calling!

Take care of business in Olean and the Bonnies can maintain their perch atop local college hoops for another year. With Quadry Adams leading the way, I don’t foresee a hungry Canisius squad pulling off the stunner this time around.

Man, I just love how many phenomenal matchups jump off the page on this loaded schedule – Kansas, Syracuse, Rhode Island, Richmond…the list goes on and on!

We are getting spoiled as St. Bonaventure fans this winter, that’s for sure. From Midnight Madness to March, it should be a wild and memorable ride. I’ll see you courtside loyal Bonnies fans!

Facing Off with West Coast Power St. Mary’s

Looking over the Bonnies’ tantalizing non-conference schedule, I’m intrigued by that December home matchup with perennial West Coast Conference contender St. Mary’s. Any time a team from outside the Eastern time zone comes to Olean, it’s must-see!

Now the Gaels may hail from little Moraga, California, but make no mistake – they’re an NCAA Tournament regular and national powerhouse. Coach Randy Bennett has turned St. Mary’s into a Gonzaga-lite out West.

In fact, the Gaels pulled off a stunner over the #1 Zags just last season before bowing out in the second round of March Madness. So they’re no stranger to taking down Goliaths.

With how much talent St. Mary’s returns, including all-WCC first-teamer Alex Ducas, they should be ranked and rolling into Olean with momentum building.

And you know the Gaels will be licking their chops seeing an upset opportunity over the ranked Bonnies away from home. St. Mary’s lives to knock off high-majors on their floor.

For St. Bonaventure, this shapes up as an intriguing non-conference measuring stick. Handling the Gaels’ versatile attack and poised backcourt play will test the Bonnies.

In terms of style, St. Mary’s likes to work patiently for high-percentage looks on offense while stifling you with sticky man-to-man defense. The Gaels don’t beat themselves very often.

So Coach Schmidt will need to have his veteran Bonnies ready to match intensity and execute crisply on both ends. Winning the hustle stats and rebounding margin seems key here.

And if names like Alex Ducas and Tommy Kuhse don’t ring a bell now, just wait until March Madness rolls around! St. Mary’s is always a trendy first-round upset pick come the Big Dance.

This lines up as a quality BracketBusters type home date for the Bonnies in December. A perfect chance to enhance the NCAA resume before A-10 play heats up.

Osun Osunniyi battling St. Mary’s physical post Matthias Tass will be must-see viewing down low. And you know Rowdy Reilly will be bonkers seeing an elite West Coast squad invade their gym!

Time to put Olean hoops on the map out West coasters! I foresee the Bonnies and Gaels staging an instant classic to get the word out on just how raucous RC gets.

Let’s pack the Reilly Center to the rafters and show these Gaels they walked into a hornet’s nest in little Olean, New York. Go shock the world Brown and White!

Man, I just can’t get over the quality of this 2023 schedule. Kansas, VCU, Rhode Island…so many roundball heavyweights coming to town. Can’t wait!!

Opening A-10 Play Against Dangerous Duquesne

Now that we’ve previewed the loaded non-conference portion, let’s dive into the A-10 slate. Right off the bat in January, St. Bonaventure draws a tricky opener on the road at Duquesne.

The Dukes are being pegged as a potential sleeper in the conference after bringing in some stud transfers to retool their roster. So starting off league play in Pittsburgh figures to be no cakewalk.

Duquesne boasts arguably the A-10’s top backcourt one-two punch now with Ohio State transfer Musa Jallow teaming up with junior sniper Leon Ayers. That combo can erupt to hang 30+ points on you in a hurry.

The Dukes’ guard play has always given the Bonnies fits. It seems like whoever wears Duquesne red turns into a knockdown shooter whenever St. Bonaventure comes calling.

So containing that explosive perimeter scoring duo will be critical if the Bonnies want to jump out to a 1-0 start in A-10 action. Easier said than done against a deep and dynamic backcourt like the Dukes boast.

Plus, heading up to Pittsburgh is never easy, even if the Dukes don’t draw huge crowds. You know that opening week energy will have Duquesne hyped to make a statement at home.

This profiles as a tricky game where St. Bonaventure can’t afford to ease into conference play. The Bonnies veterans like Quadry Adams and Osun Osunniyi need to set an intense tone early.

With transfers and freshmen likely playing big roles for Duquesne, maintaining composure will also be key. Don’t let the Dukes’ young athletes rattle you or draw you into a sloppy up-and-down affair.

If the Bonnies can control tempo and force Duquesne to stick with their halfcourt offense, that plays right into St. Bonaventure’s hands. Make those jump shooters work for clean looks against our gritty man defense.

Coach Schmidt’s savvy, experienced group seems well-equipped to handle a raucous atmosphere and hungry upstart opening night. Slow the pace, value possessions, and let your D carry the day.

Riding early momentum into the A-10 gauntlet would be huge for team confidence. And defending their upper-tier status right off the bat versus a dangerous Duquesne team would send a message to the rest of the league.

Strap in Bonnies fans, because this A-10 slate is going to be wild from start to finish! Let’s start strong at Duquesne and set the tone for a championship-caliber season.

The schedule is just loaded with tantalizing matchups. Kansas and Syracuse in non-conference, then VCU, Rhode Island, Dayton slugfests once league play starts. What a time to be a Bonnies diehard!

Going on the Road to Face George Mason in February

Digging deeper into the A-10 slate, that February showdown at George Mason sticks out as a potential landmine. Anytime the Bonnies have to head down to Fairfax, getting a win is never easy.

The Patriots might not be a perennial powerhouse, but they’re emerging as an A-10 sleeper this year after bringing in some impact transfers and recruits.

In particular, Canadian freshman guard Elijah Fisher has big-time potential as a future all-conference performer. At 6’7” with deep shooting range, he’s a pick-your-poison matchup nightmare.

Between Fisher and transfers like Josh Oduro from VCU, George Mason has the talent now to threaten the A-10’s top tier. This won’t be an easy W for the Bonnies by any means.

Mason also has one of the league’s most underrated home court environments at EagleBank Arena. Their more modest crowds help create an intimate bandbox feel that gets rowdy.

The Patriots fans may not stack up number-wise with the Rowdy Reilly Ruckus, but they’ve caused their share of headaches for visiting A-10 squads over the years.

So Coach Schmidt’s veteran Bonnies will need to lean on their maturity and poise to overcome that hostile road atmosphere. Keep turnovers and sloppy mistakes to a minimum.

In a grind-it-out rock fight of a game, St. Bonaventure has the edge experience-wise. But they can’t afford to let this plucky, rebuilt Mason team catch fire from deep and gain confidence.

Hopefully Quadry Adams can use his savvy to get Osun Osunniyi involved down low against a smaller Patriots’ frontcourt. Crashing the glass and dominating the paint seem like winning strategies here.

And defensively, keeping Fisher in check has to be the top priority. Face-guard him off the ball and dare someone else to beat you. Cut off those clean looks from deep at all costs.

Pull this one out on the road, and it’s another quality win for the Bonnies’ NCAA resume. But based on team potential, this upstart George Mason group is not to be overlooked.

Every game seems to have upset potential in this loaded A-10 gauntlet. Just another reason why I can’t wait for tipoff!

Hosting Power 5 Opponent Florida State in November

Looking back at the non-conference portion, we can’t gloss over that marquee home game against Florida State either. Anytime an ACC heavyweight comes to the Reilly Center is special.

Now the Seminoles may have taken a little step back lately, missing the last two NCAA Tournaments after a run of 26 straight appearances. But under Leonard Hamilton, you know FSU will always reload with raw talent.

With their combination of size, speed, and athleticism, Florida State tends to give the Bonnies fits. Often, St. Bonaventure just can’t match up physically across the board.

So Coach Schmidt will have his work cut out preparing Osun Osunniyi and the Bonnies frontcourt to contend with Florida State’s stable of lengthy forwards.

Not to mention the Seminoles’ suffocating full-court pressure defense. Florida State loves turning you over and converting easy transition buckets before a set defense can get established.

The Bonnies struggled mightily at times breaking that pressure last season down in Tallahassee. Keeping composed and taking care of the ball will be critical.

But with Quadry Adams’ veteran savvy at the controls this year, St. Bonaventure seems better equipped to handle that swarming Seminole defense. Letting Quadry make plays should lead to cleaner looks.

Osun having a year under his belt should help the Bonnies match Florida State’s physicality on the boards and in the paint as well. He could be an x-factor neutralizing their size advantage.

To me, this Florida State matchup provides a big early season barometer for St. Bonaventure’s chances at an at-large bid. Knocking off an ACC title contender would grab the selection committee’s attention.

And I expect the Rowdy Reilly Ruckus to have that old gym rocking for the rare visit from an ACC powerhouse. We need the RC at a fever pitch to rattle those stoic Seminoles!

Let’s pack this place to the rafters and give the Noles a little Western New York welcome. Now is the time for Bonnies fans to be loud and proud all season long!

With the talent Coach Schmidt has assembled, this group is ready to run with the big dogs. Let’s show the nation what Olean hoops is all about Bonnies faithful!

Taking on In-State Foe Buffalo in November

Opening night in Olean is always one of my favorite games of the year, when the Bonnies host an in-state foe to tip off a new season. This year it’s up-and-coming Buffalo visiting for what should be a competitive buy game.

Now I know the Bulls aren’t a glitzy non-conference opponent that will move the needle nationally. But within New York hoops circles, St. Bonaventure-Buffalo is a quality regional matchup.

The Bonnies have had some fierce battles with the Bulls over the years, especially during Buffalo’s run near the top of the MAC standings recently. They’ve proven to be no cupcake opener.

With dynamic junior guard Armoni Foster leading the attack, Buffalo has the backcourt talent to put a scare into the Bonnies if they come out flat.

UB showed last season they can compete with the A-10’s best, nearly stunning VCU in a narrow loss. So the Bonnies will need to bring focus and energy right from the opening tip.

Avoiding any first-game jitters will be key for Coach Schmidt’s veteran group. We can’t allow a scrappy underdog like Buffalo to gain confidence early on our home floor.

Punch them in the mouth right out of the gates! Set the tone with stifling defense, crashing the boards, and getting out in transition.

With Olean locals filling out the stands while students are away, I expect a fun bipartisan atmosphere for this regional battle. The crowd will be hyped just to have Bonnies basketball back.

And what better way to get the Rowdy Reilly Ruckus warmed up for the conference season than by blowing out an overmatched Buffalo squad.

Get all those freshmen and role players some experience so they’re ready to contribute once the A-10 gauntlet begins. Hopefully we’ll have walk-ons in by the end of this opener.

Take care of business like the veteran Bonnies should, and it will be a great final tune-up before the schedule gets brutal. Let’s shake off the offseason rust and roll into November firing on all cylinders!

The A-10 and non-conference slates are just packed with tantalizing matchups this year. I can’t pick a favorite – Kansas, Rhode Island, VCU, the list goes on and on.

But it all starts opening night at home versus Buffalo. Let’s set the tone Bonnies faithful and send a message that this is OUR year! I’ll see you in the RC rocking the brown and white.

Playing at Improved La Salle Squad in January

As we dive into the Atlantic 10 slate, another potential trap game that jumps out is the Bonnies’ January trip to La Salle. The Explorers seem poised for a big step forward after landing some impact transfers.

Now let’s be honest – heading to Philly to face lowly La Salle has been an automatic win for St. Bonaventure the last few seasons. But not so fast this time around.

Former Villanova assistant Fran Dunphy takes over the helm for the Explorers, looking to restore some pride in the program. And he’s got the roster reinforcements to do it.

Particularly, transfers Fousseyni Drame from St. Peter’s and Hassan Drame from New Mexico should make an immediate impact. 6’10” Fousseyni in particular gives La Salle some much-needed size and physicality.

So this won’t be the same old undersized, outmanned Explorers that the Bonnies have pushed around the last few years. This is a sneaky dangerous La Salle squad.

And having to walk into their bandbox arena after new coach excitement is always tricky. You know La Salle will be desperate to make a statement on their home floor.

For St. Bonaventure to avoid the upset, they’ll need composure and sharp execution late in close games – an area where veteran teams like the Bonnies typically thrive.

Lean on Quadry Adams’ senior leadership to guide the ship when La Salle inevitably makes a second half run in that charged atmosphere. Having Osun Osunniyi to anchor our defense doesn’t hurt either.

Make enough hustle plays and clutch shots down the stretch, and the Bonnies should escape Philly with a hard-fought resume-builder.

But this figures to be a stern test against an La Salle team with renewed energy under coach Dunphy. The Bonnies can’t just roll into this one expecting another laughable blowout.

Every matchup seems fraught with danger in this loaded A-10 conference. Just ask VCU about their nightmare loss at La Salle last season.

For the Bonnies to come away with another conference road win, they’ll need to match La Salle’s hunger and intensity in this sneaky challenging spot.

Let’s take care of business in Philly and keep building momentum in the A-10 standings Bonnies faithful! I’ll see you courtside at the first Olean home game decked out in brown and white.

Closing Regular Season at Home vs Davidson in March

As we look ahead to the end of the regular season, it’s only fitting that the Bonnies close things out by hosting A-10 powerhouse Davidson on Senior Day.

The Wildcats have been the class of the conference in recent years, rolling to multiple regular season titles behind star guard Hyunjung Lee and next-level coach Bob McKillop.

So Davidson provides the perfect litmus test for where St. Bonaventure stands as March Madness approaches. End the regular season by taking down the league’s dominant team, and the Bonnies should feel great momentum entering the A-10 Tournament.

Of course, accomplishing that feat will be easier said than done against this seasoned, skilled Davidson group. Lee is a top 10 player in the A-10, and the Wildcats’ offense is an efficient, pristine machine.

McKillop’s sophisticated system built on spacing, ball movement, and fundamentals can flummox even the most seasoned defenses. So the Bonnies will need to play sharp, focused team defense to contain all of Davidson’s weapons.

But this St. Bonaventure squad seems well-equipped to match the Wildcats with Osun Osunniyi anchoring the middle and Quadry Adams orchestrating the offense. Play sound, efficient basketball, and the Bonnies can hang around.

And closing out the year on Senior Day before a packed Rowdy Reilly crowd could give St. Bonaventure that extra emotional edge. Send our veterans off with a signature win over a conference juggernaut.

Just thinking about this showdown gives me chills. Bonnies fans sending Quadry, Osun and Chad Venning out in style by storming the court after an upset over mighty Davidson.

Coach McKillop’s group will be fired up too. With the A-10 title likely on the line, I expect a back-and-forth classic between these two skilled teams at the RC.

What a way that would be to end the regular season and head into March Madness. Let’s pack the Reilly Center to the rafters for this one Brown-and-White diehards!

The entire A-10 slate is going to be a grind with danger around every corner. But closing out at home versus Davidson would perfectly cap the Bonnies’ journey before postseason play begins.

I can’t wait to be courtside for every heart-pounding moment. See you at Midnight Madness faithful Bonnies fans – it’s time to make history this year!