Northeastern Illinois, which won but two games last year, was just a layup away from being a .500 team for the holidays.
The Golden Eagles (3-5) lost by a point Saturday to Nicholls State on a missed layup, a defeat Northeastern coach Rees Johnson called ”one of the most frustrating losses in my 27 years of coaching.” But after a 2-25 record last season, being within striking distance of .500 proves Johnson wasn`t blowing smoke in the preseason.
”I know we`ve made strides,” Johnson said before Northeastern played its first game. ”Anybody who`s watched practice knows we`ve made strides. But making strides and winning are not always the same thing.”
Northeastern made a big stride with a road victory over Wright State Dec. 12. ”It pushed us over the top and lifted a burden off the team`s shoulders,” Johnson said.
Then came the Nicholls State game, when Northeastern shot only 33 percent. The Golden Eagles forced 33 turnovers but failed to convert enough of them into a 4-4 record. Inexperience-four key players were redshirts last season-has led to streaky play.
”That`s the problem,” Johnson said. ”We`re not consistent right now.” Take freshman forward Shawn Harlan from Mundelein. ”He`s up and down like a yo-yo,” Johnson said of his leading scorer, who`s averging 15 points per game. ”But we really think he`s going to be a fine player.”
After being a heavy underdog at the South Florida Tournament Friday and Saturday, Northeastern will start the new year with games against Western Illinois, Chicago State and Alcorn State.
”Our best basketball is yet to come,” Johnson promised.
