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This was a nice win, and satisfying as each of last year's MAC finalists have fallen a bit, but UB looks closer to contender status.
Matt's Takes
1. It never slipped away
Of the entire second half, Central Michigan was only within two possessions for 3:24. UB had pretty much ended this one when they opened up a double digit lead 13 minutes in, but it takes focus and a full forty minutes of commitment to carry that early lead through. Beyond the win, how they won is impressive.
2. Underclass points
I'll just wholesale quote 158vsValpo from the recap, who was himself quoting John:
Below is why I feel so good about UB Hoop future
"Rakicevic and Perkins would each finish with 8 points off the bench and Ikenna Smart had a solid game as well finishing with a career-high tying 9 points and 7 rebounds. Massinburg finished with 8 points and 6 rebounds."
3. A clean game
Very quietly, UB sent CMU to the line for only eight free throws, while dominating the boards (44-30!) and shooting 50% themselves. It's only because Central took care of the ball and UB didn't (9 turnovers to 18) that this one wasn't an absolute barn burner.
Player of the Game: Jarryn Skeete
Most assists by a Bull in over five years - since John Boyer in November 2009. Way to step up in the wake of Lamonte's injury.
Robby's Takes
1. This team has a turnover problem now
Four of the last six games have had 18 or more turnovers. That is not good whatsoever. It's great that we won this game but put us against an opponent that will shoot the ball better and we will be in a lot of trouble. More care needs to be given with the ball and the amount of travel calls we get makes me a little annoyed. Minimize the turnovers and we're 3-1 in the MAC.
2. Defense continues to be strong
Offense is almost there but I am happy with the defense. Making Chris Fowler go 4-14 is quite a feat. One of the things that irked me about Bobby Hurley was an inconsistent defense. I think Oats has shown his players a better use of it and we'll see strong efforts like this one more often.
Player of the Game: Skeete Skeete Skeete
The guy had a double double and it wasn't with rebounds. Give that man a medal.