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MAC Tournament Championship Halftime Update
It's halftime and Kent State is winning by a score of 32-21. Nothing has been going right for Toledo, and they're probably lucky to only be down 11 and still have a chance in this one. Let's take a look at some of the first half stats that have led to this score.
Rebounding
Kent State has manhandled Toledo on the boards so far in this game with a rebounding differential of 22 to 13. When Kent State does miss shots, which hasn't been often, they've been able to muscle their way to offensive rebounds, collecting 9 in the first half. UT really has to start boxing out if they hope to get back into this one.
Shooting Percentage
Kent State is shooting 46% while Toledo has only managed 29% (8% from 3) in this first half. Kent's effective offense is even more important when you consider their aforementioned 9 offensive rebounds and the fact that they're easily converting second chance points. On the other end of the court, Toledo has been far too reliant to jack up 3 pointers, shooting 12 in the first half, yet only making 1. Three point shooting is not the strength of the Rockets, and even though they're down, Toledo needs to start working it inside to get back in this one.
Assists
Kent State has 9 assists to Toledo's 2. This is only another example of how ineffective the Toledo defense has been at finding open shooters. The Rockets need to use more ball movement like they've done in the first 3 MAC Tournament games. Meanwhile, Kent State has continued to find the open shooter on the other end.
Halftime Thoughts If Toledo wants to make this a game they have to improve on the 3 categories identified above. They've failed so much early, that it's probably a blessing that they're only down 11, and still within reach of a comeback. |
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By Dan Whitmyer, VanDelaySports.com Head Basketball Writer
published 03.11.06
MAC Tourney Semifinal Recap: #7 Toledo 77, #3 Akron 69
MAC Tourney Semifinal Recap: #1 Kent 72, #5 Ohio 59
MAC Tourney Quarterfinal Recap: #5 Ohio 73, #4 Miami 58
MAC Tourney Quarterfinal Recap: #1 Kent 76, #8 Buffalo 67
