The Rotation is Locked in
Unless there are factors of which we are unaware, such as injuries or disciplinary actions, I believe we saw the rotation tonight. The same five (McNeil, Evans, Edmead, Adams, Lubin) have started every game and the exhibitions, so that is in cement. And the first three off the bench will be the same pattern we see about everywhere, a guard (Hammond), a forward (Yalaho), and a big man (Wilkins). They were the only players even close to double digit minutes against an inferior
opponent.
There will, of course, be situational things (like fouls) that tweak the pattern, but those have proven to be the best eight players.
Game Summary:
The first half was fairly even; Troy took 4 more shots than the Pack and shot slightly better from 3PT. But the Pack hit 2 more shots and made 5 more free throws to make the 9-point margin. Paul McNeil was ice cold, missing every shot. Darius Adams was on fire and hit 5-6 for 13 points. Halftime score, Pack 36 – Troy 27.
Both team came out for the second half with more energy. The Trojans closed to within 8 points in the first two minutes, and then the Wolfpack pushed the lead to double digits and kept it there, leading by as much as 22 points. At half time Paul McNeil had 0 pts, 2 rebs, and an assist. By the time the final buzzer sounded he led the team in scoring with 16 pts, had 8 rebounds, 1 assists and a blocked shot. Final score, Wolfpack 81 – Troy 62.
Overall Takeaways:
- The Pack continues to improve their defense, holding Troy to 34% / 33% for the game
- Rebounding looked better, but this was a smaller team. The Pack won the rebounding battle 44-31, offensive boards 15-11.
- 19 assists on 25 made shots is excellent
- Only 7 turnovers
Coach Gainey Post Game Comments
Individual Highlights
- Paul McNeil led scoring with 16, 4-8 from 3PT
- Ven Lubin had another double-double, leading the rebounding with 12, and adding 15 points
- Preston Edmead led the assists with 7
- Ven Lubin led blocks with 3, but Kyle Evans is back on track with 2
Player Stats and Box Score
Box Score
