No, Allen Iverson isn't here....but the Oregon Ducks are about two hours away from their most crucial practice of the season. We just arrived to the Spokane Arena, where it is very quiet. Understandable, given that there are no games here today.
Tomorrow's opponent (Winthrop) is on the floor now....which is closed to the public and media. However, I did just take a peek in there.....and the Golden Eagles are as serious as ever. Don't be shocked if this game is as close as yesterday's versus Miami, OH. Oregon needs to get out and run....that is their bread and butter.

A couple observations on Winthrop...they are slowly becoming a mid-major power.
They held off Notre Dame yesterday for their first tournament victory.....and, in the process, won their 19th consecutive game.
A key for the Ducks is trying to contain Craig Bradshaw. He's a very athletic center who put up 24 on the Irish. He's a force down low for Winthrop....and the Ducks must be able to control him. The key for Oregon is to have tough interior defense.....that's where this game will be won or lost.

We will be speaking to both teams very shortly....I'll have a story coming up on tonight's 5:00 & 6:30 newscasts. Tune in then.....