KneeJerk Reactions: Lancers Comeback Falls Short
Longwood fell tonight in 82–72 in a game that exploited some early season troubles for the Lancers but also showed a lot of character. Here are our instant reactions.
Player of the Game: Shaq Johnson is our Player of the Game and he might not have been if it hadn’t come to light that Shaq was suffering through a virus in this one. Despite being sick Shaq posted 16 points, 4 rebounds, and 3 assists. It was a gritty performance for a guy that continues to play harder and harder in each and every outing.
Game Summary:
- Longwood just gave up too many easy shots today as the Penguins shot 52.6% from the field. There were some side ball screens that the Lancers just weren’t prepared for that left a lot of open mid-range jumpers for the Penguins. Shawn Amiker really torched the Lancers going 9-for-14 from the field and ending the night with 14 points.
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- The Lancers were only 2-for-8 from the free throw line tonight which just needs to improve. Youngstown State seemed to get a contact call every time they drove in the lane and ended up with 30 free throws. This is a bit of a reflection on the referees but regardless Longwood needs to shoot better from the charity stripe.
- Turnovers were also a key reason for the loss. Longwood turned the ball over 17 times which is far too much. Every Lancer not named Kanayo Obi-Rapu had at least two turnovers.
- The reason I say that Longwood showed a lot of character tonight is because this game was teetering on a 20 point blow out approaching the 10 minute mark. It was then when Quincy Taylor decided to take over and found his rhythm that was absent before then. Quincy did it from the outside and driving to the bucket and finished the game with 14 points and 7 assists. Quincy brought the game back within striking distance for the Lancers and made it a ballgame the last four minutes.
- Lotanna Nwogbo once again flashed how much of an upgrade he is in the post. The big man finished with 16 points, 8 rebounds, 2 steals, and 2 blocks. He had 3 turnovers but he seems to become more and more reliable each game. Longwood didn’t win the rebounding battle but they did win the points and the paint battle in large part to Nwogbo.
- Kanayo Obi-Rapu had a nice night off the bench hitting two very timely threes. Obi-Rapu did foul out but finished with 11 points and 2 rebounds. Coach Gee said he finds a lot more rhythm at the two guard rather than being forced to play point guard when Quincy was out.
The opponent for Longwood will now get harder and harder with each game starting tomorrow with host Eastern Michigan. Longwood is looking for a strong finish to the EMU Showcase when they tip off at 2:30 PM against the Eagles.
