Spartans Jump Ahead Early, Hold on Late

UNCG 62 - Elon 55

News & Record
Burlington Times News - Game Story
Burlington Times News - Coach Jensen
UNCG Athletics
Elon Athletics

* I'm sorry that this post isn't up until now. I thought it had posted Friday before I left for a weekend trip to Charlotte.

Positives
- First half --- UNCG has been notorious this season for starting slow at home. On Thursday night, the Spartans bolted out to a good lead and went to the locker room ahead 31-16.
- Poise --- After having a very good lead for most of the game, the Spartans found themselves in a fight the last 10 minutes. However, they never let the Phoenix take the lead in the game. Mikko Koivisto and Kendall Toney made big shots to put the game out of reach. All of this happened without even having Head Coach Mike Dement on the bench to steady the team.
- Senior Leadership --- Koivisto, Toney, Ben Stywall, Pete Brown and Montel Smith all contributed and played really well. Smith and Bron were very good on the defensive end of the court. While Ben, Mikko and Kendall provided the offensive spark.

Negatives
-Free throws --- UNCG shot 4-9 from the line. That's not good shooting while trying to close out a game. Also, it's not nearly enough attempts for the Spartans. UNCG needs to get to the line more often and shoot a better percentage.
- Killing Instinct? --- Elon should have never gotten back within striking distance in this game. UNCG thoroughly outplayed them for most of this game. The Spartans need to do a better job of finishing off weaker opponents. Hopefully the more games the team wins, the better they'll become at this.