Bumps in the road
Mitchell Leach II
Issue date: 8/27/04 Section: Sports
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As the team's centennial approaches, the level of competition will undoubtedly rise to another level as well. After finalizing the 2004-'05 schedule, the Leathernecks may arguably have the toughest schedule ever assembled in school history.
Western's historic campaign will feature contests against high-profile opponents that include 10-time national champion UCLA Bruins, Big-Ten's University of Iowa and a visit to the Fighting Irish of Notre Dame.
"Our schedule presents us a large contrast in styles," said second-year coach Derek Thomas. "UCLA is a long and athletic team. Iowa will bring the typical strong and physical play of the Big Ten. And Notre Dame is a grind-it-out, smart basketball team. All of these different styles of play will be very good for us," Thomas added.
The Leathernecks will kick off the season Nov. 19 at Iowa before taking off for the West Coast. The two-game road trip will begin at Pauley Pavilion (Nov. 23), where they will face the Bruins for the first time in school history.
"Playing there is going to be a great experience for the guys," Thomas said. "I hope they feel the history when they walk into arena.
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