The Iona Gaels returned from an Omaha, Neb., tournament convinced this year will be different. They hope their fans will believe, too, after tonight’s home opener, a 7:30 p.m. Mulcahy Center tip-off against St. Bonaventure.

Playing in a four-team branch of the Guardians Classic, Iona (1-1) rallied from 10 points down to beat Northern Arizona 77-67 Monday and lost 68-62 to host Creighton the next night. A split pleased coach Jeff Ruland, who said he saw none of the turmoil that hurt last winter’s 11-18 team.

“We wanted to know if there was adversity, if we could stay on the same page,” Ruland said. “I know it’s early, but I’m optimistic about what we can do.”