March 11, 2010

They are fire and fire.

And ice? Forget about it, Lafayette seniors Jeff Kari and Michael Gruner always have their thermostats turned up high when they're on the court.

Both are expected to be full of fire and desire when Lafayette (19-12) meets Lehigh (21-10) for the Patriot League title and automatic NCAA Tournament berth at 4:45 p.m. Friday at Stabler Arena.

Leopards junior forward Jared Mintz, an All-Patriot League first team player, has enjoyed the passion and intensity the seniors have brought onto the court as well as the locker room.

''In the playoffs, emotions kind of get a hold of you and Mike will talk about strategy, serious stuff, before the games to make sure that everybody knows,'' Mintz said. They kind of alternate.''

Kari and Gruner also think alike. Asked how they'd write the script for Friday's game, if given the chance, Gruner answered, ''We win.''

''Simply that, we win,'' Kari added.

To read the full article by Andre Williams of the Allentown (Pa.) Morning Call click here

For another report on Kari from the Chicago Tribune click here