Kanayo Obi-Rapu was a pivotal part to the Lancers gameplan (Photo Credit: Matthew Alexander)
The Longwood men’e basketball team played another tight contest Tuesday night in Willett Hall. Unfortunately, the Runnin Bulldogs nailed 16 treys to beat the Lancers 87-78.
In my humble opinion, the defense didn’t necessarily lose this game for Longwood. Now I understand Gardner Webb shot nearly 58% from the field and 55% from beyond the arc. But I felt that the Lancers really did keep their energy up and continued to defend throughout the entire game. Longwood contested shots and they played uptempo for 40 minutes. This was the rare occasion where the opponent simply couldn’t miss. They didn’t even go through dry spells that typically happen in a game. For instance, GWU went 9-16 from three in the first half and 7-13 from three in the second half. Their field goal numbers are very similar (13-24 and 17-28).
I realize I’ve probably just made an argument against myself but there were just a handful of times where Longwood seemed out of position or played off the shooters too much. That happens in every college basketball game night in and night out. I’m no wizard when it comes to the X’s and O’s of basketball, but I can tell you the numbers for this game were worse than they appeared. In fact, me being the optimist that I am, I’d argue it’s incredible that we were even in this game. When an opposing team shots better than 55% from the floor, you’re probably being blown out. I feel like it’s impressive that Longwood was in this one late and lost by just 9 points.
Anyway, my main point is what it has been all season. This team is incredibly fun to watch. They embrace P.A.C.E. and you can tell they’re growing as a team. The energy they bring to the product on the floor is cool to witness. As a fan, I look forward to each and every game because this team has proved that they can compete with any team in this conference.
Just to mention some of the insane statistics, GWU outrebounded Longwood 39-22. Give Damarion Geter some credit as he was able to pull down 3 offensive boards. Other than that, it was the typical struggle inside for the Lancers. They’re practically playing without a 5.
Victor Dorsey is continuously looking more comfortable as his minutes are increasing. The freshman tallied 6 points, 2 rebounds (both offensive), and a block. Another freshman, Kanayo Obi-Rapu was much more agressive in this game. He scored a career high 15 points and added 2 assists, 2 steals, and a rebound. Shaq Johnson had another solid outing as well as Qunicy Taylor. The two combined for 36 points. One category the Lancers were stellar in was turnovers. The Lancers turned it over just 5 times and forced GWU into 16 turnovers.
All in all, I was not discouraged by this game. We all know it’s going to be hard to have a decent rebounding margin. That alone is going to hinder you in most games. What’s impressive about this squad is their ability to scratch and claw. They are never out of a game (as proven by their 16 point deficit midway in the second half Tuesday). What’s a good quality for any tournament team? Battle-tested. Longwood definitely has that on their side.
The Lancers will play in a rare Friday night game when they travel to Asheville, NC to take on the UNC-Asheville Bulldogs. Tip is set for 7pm! Remember, you can watch the game live on the Big South Network…for FREE!
