Potts Ignites UNCG to Huge Second Half

UNCG 66 - App State 61

UNCG Athletics
ASU Athletics

Halftime: UNCG 21 - App State 34

UNCG Stats
Leader Points: Potts (26)
Leader Rebounds: Cain (15)
Leader Assists: Saddler (8)
Team FG: 24-58 (41.4%)
Team 3 Pt: 9-20 (45.0%)
Team FT: 9-17 (52.9%)
Rebounds: 40
Turnovers: 10

App State Stats
Leader Points: Spagnolo (15)
Leader Rebounds: Spagnolo (17)
Leader Assists: Neal (7)
Team FG: 23-67 (34.3%)
Team 3 Pt: 7-24 (29.2%)
Team FT: 8-12 (66.7%)
Rebounds: 45
Turnovers: 9

Thoughts
A funny thing happen on the way to UNCG losing their fourth game in a row. Jordan Potts happened. In a big way. At the 14 minute mark of the second half, UNCG was down 44-32. Potts made a 3 to pull UNCG within 9. Over then next 6 minutes he made 5 more. His last one gave UNCG it's first lead since it was 2-0 in the first minute of play. After that it was a scramble to the finish that saw the Spartans hold off App State and break its losing streak.

While the second half story was Potts, the first half was all about offense (or the lack of it). The Spartans shot 25.0% and App State wasn't a ton better at 37.5%. Both teams had a ton of good looks. The ball just wouldn't go down. At one point it felt like the first team to score 40 should be declared the winner. The second half turned into a major track meet though. Both teams were gassed by the end.

As much as this story is about Potts and his offensive display, it should be even more about his defense. His on-ball defense really sparked the entire team. UNCG showed very little life in teh first half. By the second, everyone was throwing themselves on the floor to get to every ball. It was fun to see that switch get flipped. Congrats to the team and the coaches for making it happen.

Now on to the back half of this home stand that UNCG needs to sweep. Another win would put some distance between itself and another team vying for the bye spot. So, it's another big game. We'll get to that one in the preview. Go Spartans !!!