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Oakland celebrates their win over the Volunteers

Somebody forgot to remind Oakland University (6-5) they play in the Summit League. Last night they took down No. 7 Tennessee in Knoxville, Ten. It was a monumental win for the Golden Grizzlies who were coming off a one point loss to No. 8 Michigan St. The way Oakland closed the game out last night against the Vols was impressive, as they hit multiple big shots down the stretch. Remember, this is the same Oakland University who took down Oregon at Mac Court a couple years back.

Keith Benson was huge for
the Golden Grizzlies

Oakland has prepared itself nicely to win against a big-time team. Yesterday we raved about Gonzaga's schedule, but Oakland has scheduled an almost equally tough non-conference schedule. Their five losses this year have come against West Virginia, No. 9 Purdue, Wright St ( A formidable Horizon opponent), Illinois, and Michigan St. The Golden Grizzlies have practically joined the Big 10, as they still have games at Michigan and No. 2 Ohio St.

Want a little more information about Oakland? They are led by senior center Keith Benson, who has been an absolute load inside averaging 18 points and 11 rebounds per game. Last night in Knoxville, Ten. he finished with 26 and 10, going six for six from the free throw line.  Normally Reggie Hamilton is a formidable outside shooter, but last night he couldn't get anything going. Instead, Will Hudson was everywhere, fighting for loose balls and grabbing offensive boards. He pulled down six big offensive boards in route to 17 points. The Golden Grizzlies have heart, and if they make it out of the Summitt League they could be a tough out in the first round of the tourney.