Before heading to Hawaii to live their best life and play some basketball, the Dayton Flyers were a uncertain team.
They were 3-0 but hadn't played the toughest schedule to date.
After starting slow in the first 2 games, Dayton got its offense clicking in Game 3, against Omaha, to setup the Maui trip.
After defeating Georgia and Virginia Tech easily in the first two rounds, could they go toe to toe with one of the "Big Boys" in Kansas?
Could they actually beat Bill Self, and the storied "Rock Chalk" Jayhawks program in a Championship game on National Television?
Not only did they go toe to toe, they almost won the game, as Kansas grinded out a "ESPN Classic" type 80-74 overtime win.
With expert analyst Jay Bilas riding the Dayton wave, the Flyers displayed that they have all the tools to try to make a run at a Final Four berth.
And while it has been the coming out party of Obi Toppin, the 6'10 240 pound monster of a player for UD, it was the entire team that showed why the Flyers could end up being a sleeper pick for a Final Four spot by some.
Jalen Crutcher showed his clutch gene and ability to run a offense against some of the best guards in the country. Rodney Chapman, despite some shaky calls on him, showed he's a Top combo guard, and a great defender.
Trey Landers, one of the top 2-way wing players in college, (Swiss Army knife type) pushed his NBA stock up with great play and the ability to do a variety of things well, especially lockdown defense and shoot.
Ibi Watson, the transfer from Michigan, broke out and showed why he could be a NBA prospect and All American candidate for next year. Watsons' shooting range, ability to attack the rim and his size were major factors for the Flyers. A great 6th man weapon for the Flyers. Possibly the best 6th man in college.
Ryan Mikesell, one of the best Stretch Fowards in the country, showed his grit and value with a great showing as well.
Now lets evaluate Toppin, shall we?
Toppin was double teamed, (triple teamed a few ttimes) the entire 1st half against Kansas, which forced him to make plays for his teammates, which he did.
Dayton was on fire from 3 in the first half, draining 8 3's, primarily on rotation plays from kickouts by Toppin.
Toppin showed why he will be a Top 15 pick as well.
Late into the 1st half, Dayton was down 27-25 and Toppin had not scored a point. He still ended up with 7 points and 6 boards in the 1st half, and when it was all said and done, he had went toe to toe, and showed he can handle anything that was thrown at him.
Toppins final statline:
6-11 FG, 18 pts, 9 rebounds, 2 blocks, (40 min).
Considering what he and the Flyers faced? A great game, by any standards.
Despite the loss, this Obi Toppin led Dayton Flyers showed they will be a team to be reckoned with.
Especially in March.
Dont believe me? Ask Jay Bilas, the ESPN basketball analyst who covered the entire event.
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