Game of the Day: Massachusetts vs BYU
After suffering a loss in the first round of the Barclay’s Classic, both the Cougars and Minutemen will try to avoid heading home without a win, and going 0-2 in Brooklyn. Here are some keys to look for.
For UMass, they will need to find another scoring option, as Luwane Pipkins has been there only real scoring threat this season. While he is averaging over 20 a game, nobody else on the team is over 10. Rashaan Holloway could emerge as the second option, as he will be the biggest guy on the floor, and really has not had a breakout game up to this point. This could be the game to boost his confidence and really get him going. Also, this will be one of those rare games where the short bench for the Minutemen will not be too big a factor, as BYU has basically only went seven players deep in their rotation this year.
When looking at the Cougars, it is easy to spot that they have great size at all positions. This could be a problem for the smaller UMass guards like Pipkins and McLean, as they will constantly be guarded by guys bigger than them. The Cougars will also look for a big game out of guard Elijah Bryant, who is averaging 18 points a game.
This definitely appears to be a very even matchup, and the key will come down to the guards. If the length of the Cougars can slow Pipkins down, UMass might be in trouble. But, that is easier said than done.
My Prediction: UMass 72, BYU 66
Georgetown vs Richmond
So far things have not gone as planned for Richmond, and they will try to turn things around today against the Hoyas. Unfortunately for the Spiders, Georgetown is one of the better teams they will play this year. If Grant Golden can keep the Hoyas’ leading rebounder and scorer in check (Jessie Govan), they might have a chance. But that is a tall task for a redshirt freshman.
My Prediction: Georgetown 83, Richmond 70
Davidson vs Appalachian State
Davidson has performed very well so far this season, and that trend will continue today against Appalachian State. Grady and Aldridge should both have big games, and the Wildcats should be able to head back home with a comfortable win.
My Prediction: Davidson 86, Appalachian State 68
Dayton vs Akron
This game could come down to post play, as Daniel Utomi has averaged 26 points for the Zips in their first two games. He will be battling with Josh Cunningham all night, and that will be a key to the game. The Flyers are 2-0 against the MAC this year, and I expect them to make it 3-0 after tonight in front of a packed UD Arena.
My Prediction: Dayton 75, Akron 65
St. Bonaventure vs TCU
The Bonnies will take on TCU in the championship of the Emerald Classic tonight. Both had close wins in the semifinals, and will look to head home as 2-0 in the tournament. Bona forced a ton of turnovers by mixing up their defenses last night, and will look to do the same tonight. The Horned Frogs almost got upset yesterday, and Jamie Dixon will make sure that they don’t take St. Bonaventure lightly. No matter what, this will be a close and exciting game.
My Prediction: St. Bonaventure 68, TCU 73
1 Comment
good stuff!