Game just ended: 9:55 pm eastern time. Villanova Wildcats defeat Maryland Terrapins 95-86. Before I get into the game, let me just say that this might have been the worst announced game I have ever heard. I am not even going to bother looking up their names, but they were Maryland homers and that’s a complete understatement. Anyway, some notes on the game are below.
-So much for the lack of offensive production this season. Both teams shot the lights out, which was helped out by poor defensive efforts.
-It was raining threes early on, as Maryland started the game by hitting a trey, but the Cats responded with 3 straight from downtown, putting Villanova ahead in the early going.
-Villanova could not miss in the first half, especially Scottie Reynolds, as he had 15 in the first twenty minutes.
-The lead for the Cats was about 8 to 12 throughout the first half.
-Halftime score: Villanova 49 Maryland 38
-Quickly into the second half, Villanova bumped the lead up to 16, but Maryland responded, eventually pulling to within 3 points with about 10 minutes left. The Terps had a few chances to tie it up, but could not connect.
-After that, every time the Terps tried to make a run, the Wildcats responded with a big bucket or two.
-Scottie Reynolds, Corey Stokes, Corey Fisher, Antonio Pena, Taylor King, and Dominic Cheek all deserve props tonight. Scottie had 25 points (including his usual clutch free throws at the end) and 8 assists, Corey Stokes had 18 points, Fisher put up 20 points, and Big Tone notched 8 points and grabbed 11 rebounds. Off the bench, King had 13 points andf 6 boards, although he did chuck up some shots, but you gotta love his intensity and hustle. The duo of Stokes and Cheek caused Greivis Vasquez problems all night, and his frustration showed.
-For Maryland, let me start by saying that Greivis Vasquez is not that good. A decent defender can contain him any night, and in addition, he has an attitude, as he complains about virtually every call. Him and King were jawing at each other all game. Vasquez finished with a quiet 12 points, 7 assists, and 7 turnovers. Sean Mosley could not be stopped though, putting up 26 points on 11-13 shooting. Eric Hayes lit it up from 3, finishing with 5 trey balls and totaling 20 points. Freshman Jordan Williams was a force inside with 19 points and 12 rebounds.
-Keys to the win: Villanova outrebounded the Terps 42-30 and Maryland basically has no bench. It was a huge advantage to have King and Cheek providing depth tonight.
Great win in a virtual road game. Beating ACC teams is always sweet. More analysis to follow tomorrow.
Chocolate Thunder
Brian
Vinnie
Nova Fan '06
December 6, 2009
Agreed sweet win! When they came within 3 we could have folded but we are tough our freshman are tough. Cheek made some big plays. Those announcers should be shot! Every time there guys are fighting for the rebound and we just happen to get it. What a joke!!!! Go Nova!!!!!