Basketball takes Krutwig, well, just about everywhere
Jacobs graduate Conrad Krutwig understood there would be several off-the-court differences between high school basketball and the Division I college game, specifically travel.
In high school he would board a District 300 bus for a ride to an away game that usually took no more than an hour, usually less. College road games at the University of South Dakota take a tad bit longer.
For instance, take the itinerary for last week's season-opening Duel in the Desert Tournament hosted by Texas Tech in Lubbock, Texas. Krutwig and the rest of the Coyotes boarded a bus in Vermillion, SD and took a nearly two-hour bus ride to Omaha, Neb. because flights are considerably cheaper out of Omaha than Vermillion.
"Then we had to take two flights to get to Lubbock," Krutwig said. "We flew into Dallas and then we went from Dallas to Lubbock. We took one of those little prop planes with the propellers on it from Dallas to Lubbock and then back to Dallas when it was over. Oh my gosh. It was terrible."
Travel issues aside, Krutwig - an honorary co-captain of the 2008-09 Daily Herald All-Area team - said he is fitting in well and enjoying the college experience. He saw his first action on Nov. 13 when South Dakota took on Texas Tech and coach Pat Knight. In 13 minutes Krutwig grabbed 6 rebounds and picked up 4 personal fouls.
"The speed of the game is definitely a big change," he said. "I kind of adapted to it a little easier than some because I like playing fast. It's a big change, but you can get used to it. I really think what helped me out was coming here in the summer and getting a head start. I got to see what the team is like, how we play and got used to the guys."
The 6-foot-6 Krutwig is biding his time as a freshman, vying for minutes behind established senior big men Steve Smith (6-11) and Tyler Cain (6-8)
"They're definitely going to see the majority of the playing time," Krutwig said. "I just keep working hard in practice, trying to get every opportunity I can.
"Practice is going good and I'm getting along with all my teammates. I really like it here. I'm fitting in good school-wise. There are study table hours you have to go to and things like that. It's a pretty big adjustment and it takes time to get used to."
Like most college students, getting used to seeing your family only periodically is a major adjustment. However, Conrad will have the chance to see parents Kevin and Lorraine and other friends and relatives in Milwaukee on Tuesday when South Dakota plays at Marquette.
"I think (Jacobs coach Jim) Hinkle might be going too," Krutwig said. "It'll be good to be back in the Midwest area and see my family."
The home fans will get another chance to see Krutwig in action on Saturday, Feb. 27, when the Coyotes play a Great Western Conference game at Chicago State.