PROVIDENCE — Ed Cooley approached Monday night’s season opener against Vermont with a mix of excitement and nervousness, with good reason.
While the Friars started three experienced juniors and a sophomore who saw big minutes a year ago, within the opening six minutes Cooley had emptied his bench. He sent nine players into the game in the first half, including five newcomers.
“Inexperienced depth is going to test my patience,” Cooley said. "Some of our guys just aren’t there yet.”
At several points in the first half, Cooley looked out at the floor and told his bench that he had too many youngsters in the lineup at the same time.