Spiders Hang On
The Richmond Spiders defeated the Wofford Terriers by a score of 77-72 at the Robins Center in their home opener this afternoon. The Spiders started this one on an 11-0 run that they took all the way into the under-16 media timeout. In a game that was close throughout, Richmond’s experience paid big dividends in this one. The Terriers were ahead with just over a minute to play, and the Spiders had multiple people to go through in crunch time. Tyler Burton was big late in this one and finished with 12 points. Grant Golden had another great game, as he scored 15 in just 23 minutes of action. No one other than Jacob Gilyard was the hero in this one. Gilyard had ice in his veins, hitting a dagger 3 with 19 seconds to play. He finished this one with 18 points, 5 steals, and 6 assists.
A game of runs
When the Spiders opened up on a 11-0 run, this game seemed like it would get out of reach early. Wofford did not shy away from the challenge of facing a top 25 team on the road on short notice. The Terriers were led by Storm Murphy, who went 7-15 from the field including four 3’s, finishing with 21. Especially in the 2nd half, this game was similar to a tennis match. You’d look one way and Richmond would be up 12, then a minute later, they are only ahead by about 5. Having to have a short pause last week definitely paid a toll on the Spiders. Not being able to practice or play for a few days makes a huge difference, and it showed in this one. Fortunately for them, they are a well coached team with a ton of veteran leadership which led the charge for them.
Breaking it Down
Richmond had 13 points from the bench compared to the Terriers 2. Once again, the depth of this team is really paying off. The Spiders went 13-20 from the line, something that we have been paying close attention to this season. Nathan Cayo had another solid contest in this one, finishing with 11 points, one of four Spiders in double figures. He’s playing with much more confidence out there, and it is clearly showing and benefiting him in a great way. Andre Gustavson continues to be a huge x factor off the bench. He saw 23 minutes of game time and contributed 8 points and a steal, leading the Spiders to victory. Richmond committed 9 turnovers today, and forced 14 from Wofford which led to 15 of their 77 points today.
Road Ahead
Up next for the Spiders comes a date with the Northern Iowa Panthers (1-3) of the Missouri Valley Conference on Wednesday night at the Robins Center (6:00). Sunday afternoon (1:00 ESPN), the Spiders will face the #11 West Virginia Mountaineers in Morgantown. As always, stay up to date with all things Richmond basketball right here on A10talk.com, as well as Twitter at @AustinDaisey11 & @A10Talk. See you Wednesday night Spider Nation!
