VCU's Max Shulga led the Rams with a scorching 19 points, but it wasn't enough to overcome a red-hot Richmond squad led by senior guard Jordan King in the Capital City Classic on Saturday night. The final score: Richmond 79, VCU 76.
Shulga Shines, But Rams Struggle Early
Shulga, a senior guard, displayed a sharpshooter's touch, knocking down four of his six three-point attempts and converting all seven free throws. He also chipped in with four rebounds and two assists. However, VCU found themselves trailing at halftime despite Shulga's efforts.
King Ignites Second Half Surge
The second half belonged to Richmond's Jordan King. King exploded for 27 points, including five three-pointers. He sparked a pivotal 12-0 run midway through the period, putting the Spiders in the lead and silencing the VCU crowd. King's clutch shooting continued as the shot clock expired, extending Richmond's advantage to seven points.
Rams Fight Back, But Fall Short
VCU refused to go down without a fight. A late surge fueled by steals and buckets from Jackson and Lawal brought the Rams within two points with just under five minutes remaining. However, Richmond answered with key baskets from Isaiah Bigelow and Dji Bailey, ultimately holding off the VCU comeback attempt.
Richmond's Second Half Eruption
The deciding factor of the game was undoubtedly Richmond's remarkable shooting display in the second half. The Spiders connected on an impressive 13 consecutive field goals and shot a blistering 67% overall from the field, including 7-of-14 from three-point range. This offensive effort proved too much for VCU to overcome.
Up Next
VCU will look to bounce back on Tuesday, March 5th at 7:00 pm, when they host Duquesne for Senior Day at the Siegel Center. The Rams will be hoping to honor their graduating seniors with a victory.
Shulga Shines, But Rams Struggle Early
Shulga, a senior guard, displayed a sharpshooter's touch, knocking down four of his six three-point attempts and converting all seven free throws. He also chipped in with four rebounds and two assists. However, VCU found themselves trailing at halftime despite Shulga's efforts.
King Ignites Second Half Surge
The second half belonged to Richmond's Jordan King. King exploded for 27 points, including five three-pointers. He sparked a pivotal 12-0 run midway through the period, putting the Spiders in the lead and silencing the VCU crowd. King's clutch shooting continued as the shot clock expired, extending Richmond's advantage to seven points.
Rams Fight Back, But Fall Short
VCU refused to go down without a fight. A late surge fueled by steals and buckets from Jackson and Lawal brought the Rams within two points with just under five minutes remaining. However, Richmond answered with key baskets from Isaiah Bigelow and Dji Bailey, ultimately holding off the VCU comeback attempt.
Richmond's Second Half Eruption
The deciding factor of the game was undoubtedly Richmond's remarkable shooting display in the second half. The Spiders connected on an impressive 13 consecutive field goals and shot a blistering 67% overall from the field, including 7-of-14 from three-point range. This offensive effort proved too much for VCU to overcome.
Up Next
VCU will look to bounce back on Tuesday, March 5th at 7:00 pm, when they host Duquesne for Senior Day at the Siegel Center. The Rams will be hoping to honor their graduating seniors with a victory.
