The Go Rhody Podcast is back and buzzing with anticipation for the 2025-2026 season. Host Scott Brand sat down with Rhode Island basketball legend and former color commentator Abu Bakr to discuss the Rams’ early season performance and what lies ahead.
Brand and Bakr kicked things off by analyzing the Rams’ first two games against Stetson and Tulsa. While URI split the opening matches, Brand made it clear that the loss was not due to a lack of effort. Instead, Tulsa took advantage of second-chance opportunities – a major concern tied directly to Rhody’s resurgent struggles.
The pair didn’t shy away from assessing the Rams’ non-conference roster, which Bakr called “deceptively strong.” With more athleticism and speed this year, the Rams have the tools to compete, but execution on both ends of the floor will be key.
A focal point of the discussion was the team’s point guard play. Bakr was blunt: Rhody’s floor generals have failed to produce on either side of the ball in the early action. That shortage, combined with postal restrictions, has made the internal scoring inconsistent. Fortunately, URI’s perimeter shooting looks promising, with several players showing the ability to knock down threes under pressure.
Looking ahead to the Atlantic 10 action, Brand and Bakr recalled the Rams’ late-season collapses in recent years — a trend that can’t continue. “Can Archie Miller keep his job if they fall out again?” Brand asked, prompting a frank discussion about the coach’s buyout clause and the commitment to the program this season.
They then moved on to the current squad, listing key strengths and weaknesses before evaluating each player, highlighting who was ready to step up and who needed to improve. The crew also delved into last season’s shooting errors, highlighting progress and identifying areas that need attention.
A crucial storyline will be the return of big man Drissa Traoré in early December. His presence could be what URI needs to strengthen the interior and become more competitive on the glass.
Before the program wrapped, the hosts paid tribute to former athletics director Thorr Bjorn and recognized his lasting impact on the program. Bakr concluded with his season predictions, predicting a campaign marked by more power, speed and intensity – provided the Rams learn from their early setbacks and tighten up in key areas.
Rhody fans have plenty to watch this year. Tune in, buckle up and get ready. The Rams have something to prove.
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