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NCAA Tournament staying at 68 teams in 2026. Future growth is possible.
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Published in Sports and Competition on Tuesday, August 5th 2025 at 3:28 GMT by St. Louis Post-Dispatch🞛 This publication is a summary or evaluation of another publication 🞛 This publication contains editorial commentary or bias from the source
The idea of expanding the tournament to either 72 or 76 teams had picked up steam in the spring. Expansion is still possible for 2027.
The Weight of Expectation: How Pressure and a Shifting Identity are Shaping Rick Cruz's First Season at Saint Louis University
The air around Saint Louis University men’s basketball is thick with expectation this season, an expectation that feels both familiar and subtly different than in recent years. While consistent NCAA Tournament appearances were the norm under Travis Ford, the current atmosphere carries a heavier weight – the burden of Rick Cruz's arrival as head coach and the promise of a significant stylistic shift. The *St. Louis Post-Dispatch* article by Dave Mercer delves into the complexities of this first season for Cruz, exploring how he’s navigating the pressures of replacing a beloved predecessor while simultaneously attempting to reshape the Billikens’ identity on both ends of the court.
The narrative begins with acknowledging Ford's legacy. He built a program known for its defensive grit and physicality, consistently punching above its weight in the Atlantic 10 Conference. The fans were accustomed to a certain brand of basketball – tough, resilient, and often relying on opportunistic scoring. Cruz, however, brings a different philosophy rooted in offensive creativity, pace-and-space principles, and a more modern approach to player development. This isn’t simply about running more plays; it's about fundamentally altering how the Billikens operate.
The article highlights that this transition hasn’t been seamless. While Cruz has emphasized his respect for Ford’s work and the foundation he laid, implementing his system requires a significant adjustment from both players and coaching staff. The initial weeks of the season saw inconsistency, particularly on offense. Players accustomed to more structured, deliberate sets struggled with the increased freedom and responsibility required in Cruz's system. There were turnovers, missed rotations, and moments where the team seemed unsure of its roles. This wasn’t a reflection of talent deficiency, but rather a consequence of ingrained habits colliding with new expectations.
A key element of Cruz’s vision is empowering his players to make decisions on the court. He wants them to read defenses, create opportunities for themselves and their teammates, and play with a level of improvisation that was less prevalent under Ford. This requires a high degree of basketball IQ and confidence – qualities that take time to cultivate. The article points out that Cruz has been patient in this regard, understanding that the learning curve is steep and that immediate perfection isn't attainable. He’s actively working on simplifying concepts, providing more targeted instruction, and fostering an environment where players feel comfortable taking risks and learning from their mistakes.
Beyond the tactical adjustments, the article explores the psychological impact of change. Replacing a coach who had been at the helm for over a decade is never easy. Ford was deeply connected to the university and the St. Louis community, and his departure left a void that Cruz has been working to fill. While players have publicly expressed their support for Cruz and enthusiasm for his vision, there's an underlying sense of navigating uncharted territory. The pressure to perform, coupled with the unfamiliarity of a new system and coaching style, can be mentally taxing.
The article emphasizes that Cruz is keenly aware of this dynamic. He’s made a concerted effort to build relationships with the players, understand their individual needs and concerns, and create a sense of camaraderie within the team. He's also been transparent about the challenges ahead, acknowledging that progress will be incremental and that there will be bumps along the road. This honesty, coupled with his genuine passion for the game and his commitment to player development, seems to be fostering trust and buy-in from the roster.
One of the most intriguing aspects discussed is Cruz’s approach to recruiting. He inherited a team with some talent but also recognized the need to bring in players who fit his system and embody his values. The article suggests that he's prioritizing recruits who possess not only skill but also intelligence, versatility, and a willingness to learn. This signals a shift away from solely focusing on size and physicality – qualities that were often emphasized under Ford. Cruz is looking for players who can thrive in a more positionless environment, contributing in multiple ways and adapting to different roles as needed.
The article also touches upon the role of veteran leadership within the team. While several key players have embraced the changes, some are still adjusting. The experienced players are crucial in bridging the gap between Ford’s era and Cruz’s vision, serving as mentors for younger teammates and providing a steadying influence during moments of uncertainty. Their ability to embrace the new system while maintaining their own confidence will be vital to the team's overall success.
Furthermore, the article highlights the unique challenges presented by the Atlantic 10 Conference. It remains a competitive league with several established programs vying for supremacy. The Billikens’ transition period makes them potentially vulnerable to upsets and inconsistent performances. However, it also presents an opportunity to surprise opponents who may underestimate their progress.
Ultimately, the *St. Louis Post-Dispatch* article paints a nuanced picture of Rick Cruz's first season at Saint Louis University. It’s not a story of immediate triumph or devastating failure, but rather one of ongoing evolution and adaptation. The pressure is undeniably present – from fans yearning for another NCAA Tournament berth to university administrators expecting progress. However, Cruz appears determined to build something sustainable, prioritizing player development, fostering a positive team culture, and establishing an identity that reflects his own coaching philosophy. The article concludes with the sense that while the road ahead may be challenging, the foundation is being laid for a brighter future for Billiken basketball – one built on offensive creativity, strategic flexibility, and a renewed commitment to embracing change. The success of this transition will depend not only on Cruz’s leadership but also on the players' willingness to embrace his vision and persevere through the inevitable growing pains. It’s a story still unfolding, with the final chapter yet to be written.
Read the Full St. Louis Post-Dispatch Article at:
[ https://www.stltoday.com/sports/college/basketball/article_ef851688-bfc4-418a-b85e-371c36288019.html ]