Defense Propels UNCG to Road Win

UNCG 66 - App State 60

UNCG Athletics
App State Athletics

Halftime: UNCG 29 - App State 30

UNCG Stats
Leader Points: Saddler, Paulos (Tied - 13)
Leader Rebounds: Cain (14)
Leader Assists: Sadler (3)
Team FG: 23-49 (46.9%)
Team 3 Pt: 4-12 (33.3%)
Team FT: 16-25 (64.0%)
Rebounds: 41
Turnovers: 21

App State Stats
Leader Points: Canty (15)
Leader Rebounds: Obacha (7)
Leader Assists: Hamilton, Canty (Tied - 2)
Team FG: 20-58 (34.5%)
Team 3 Pt: 5-17 (29.4%)
Team FT: 15-21 (71.4%)
Rebounds: 34
Turnovers: 14

Thoughts
UNCG had another rough mountain trip in regards to keeping possession of the basketball. 21 turnovers has usually been the downfall of the Spartans this season. However, G played some solid second half defense and continued to dominate the rebounding margin.

The Mountaineers came into this game leading the SoCon in offensive rebounding. However, UNCG's front court held App State 6 boards below its average. Also, the Spartans defense limited App to just 5 made 3-pointers and under 35% shooting for the game. Jay Canty had a solid first half (11 points) but didn't take many shots in the second half and, according the UNCG radio feed, seemed injured throughout the second half. Not sure what the deal was with him.

As for UNCG, it was definitely ugly. That turnover number was extremely high. Probably too high to think that they will many more games being that careless with the ball. However, it was a win. A conference road win, no less. Those are not wins to be taken lightly. So, I'm sure the coaching staff and team would rather watch film of those mistakes after a win.

Now UNCG can take the weekend off and focus on what will be a giant home stand. On Thursday, UNCG will have a chance to go above .500 in the month of January for the first time in what feels like forever. If they can find a way to get past the Citadel, they will get a chance to face off with Davidson in a huge home contest that should see a big crowd and a ton of excitement. Go Spartans !!!