Redhawks start well

SEATTLE – Maybe it’s time to start rethinking this “transition year” for Seattle University.

What was expected to be a season of headaches and obstacles for the Redhawks (7-5) has instead turned into a promising first campaign in Seattle’s return to Division I basketball after nearly three decades playing at lower levels.

Now comes Seattle’s home showcase for the 2008-09 season – tonight’s home game at KeyArena against Loyola Marymount, the Redhawks’ first home game against a Division I foe since the school dropped from Division I in 1980.

The marquee game comes against the team Seattle last played at the Seattle Center Coliseum – which later became KeyArena – before the Redhawks dropped from Division I sports.

“I think the people are starting to realize, including the players, that we are a good team, we’re a really good team,” Seattle coach Joe Callero said. “We’re playing really good talent, but we’re a really good team that can sustain it. This is not a fluke.”