#7 Rhode Island Rams 67, #10 Massachusetts Minutemen 62
Thanks to a red-hot start from Jabarie Hinds, Massachusetts had no problem building a double digit lead in the first half. Hinds had 17 in the first alone and would lead the Minutemen with 21 on the game. He and Trey Davis were huge proponents behind Massachusetts’ solid performance on Thursday night. Davis had 20 points, including a three with just under 2 minutes to play that would put the Minutemen up for good. Rhode Island had been going on a run in the second half, but Massachusetts was able to hold on regardless. Jared Terrell hit the go-ahead three pointer in the last couple minutes, but Davis’ three would prove to be the most important shot of the game. Massachusetts will move on to face VCU tomorrow night.
Rhode Island was led by Four McGlynn with 16 points. Senior Earl Watson had a very solid game as he finished with 15 points and 15 rebounds. Jared Terrell also finished in double digits with 14 of his own. It’s been tough all season for this Rhode Island team as it’s battled with injuries and issues. Dan Hurley admitted in the post game press conference that it will be nice to reset and take some time during the offseason. The Rams exit the tournament and will not likely be playing in any postseason tournament this year.
#6 Davidson Wildcats 78, #14 La Salle Explorers 63
Peyton Aldridge helped Davidson get off to a red-hot start in the first half. He had 17 points and benefited greatly from Jack Gibbs’ 6 assists in the first 20 minutes. Aldridge would finish with 27 points. La Salle, despite a nice win over Duquesne on Wednesday night, will be eliminated from the Atlantic 10 Tournament. Jordan Price led the way for the Explorers with 23 points, 4 assists, and 9 rebounds. Davidson went on a nice run to end the first half and never looked back in the second. They’ll get a rematch with St. Bonaventure tomorrow night. The game should be a clash between two teams that have explosive offenses and spectacular backcourts.
