Matadors' Pre Game, November 3th - Nobel University
·9 min
The episode is a pre-game interview with CSUN Matadors third-year head coach Andy Newman, conducted by host Ghizal Hasan. Newman opens by expressing his fortune in coaching basketball at Cal State Northridge, recalling a personal moment from the first practice with his family. He discusses the team's progress, noting improved shooting and athleticism compared to previous years. Depth is addressed as a concern due to injuries, specifically the loss of Jalen Barbee (ACL) and Quentin Webb (Achilles) for the season. Newman identifies key players to watch, including Larry Hughes for scoring, Josiah Davis for passion, and DeVias Lowry for potential high-scoring nights. He also mentions James Evans' athleticism. A significant revelation is the involvement of former NBA champion and coach Byron Scott as a consultant, providing insights to the staff. The conversation shifts to scheduling difficulties, with Newman explaining that CSUN's improved competitiveness makes it hard to secure games, as opponents avoid playing them in Southern California. He frames the opener against Nobel University as an opportunity to establish team roles and identity. The episode concludes with a lighthearted reference to the 1990s before the game starts.
