VCU earned its fourth straight win and extended its dominance over Richmond at the Siegel Center with a 77–69 victory in the 96th meeting between the programs. The Rams controlled the opening half with physical play inside and a strong effort on the offensive glass, scoring their first six points in the paint and building early separation.
Lazar Djokovic and Jadrian Tracey accounted for 10 of VCU’s first 12 points as the Rams repeatedly generated second chances, finishing the half with 10 offensive rebounds that led to nine points. Barry Evans set the tone on the glass, and Ahmad Nowell capped the half with a buzzer-beating three to give VCU a 39–29 lead at the break.
VCU used an 8–0 run in the opening minutes of the second half to push the lead to 49–34, but Richmond responded and steadily cut into the margin. The Rams went more than 10 minutes without a made field goal down the stretch, but stayed in control by scoring their next 9 points from the free-throw line after the Spiders reached the bonus with 9:22 remaining.
Richmond closed within four in the final minutes, but a late three from Michael Belle, a tough finish by Terrence Hill Jr., and clutch free throws from Brandon Jennings allowed VCU to close out the win.
With the win, VCU improves to 6–2 in A-10 play and 15–6 overall. The Rams return to action on Friday, January 30, traveling to Loyola Chicago for the Coaches vs. Cancer game. Tip-off is set for 9:00 p.m. ET and the game will be broadcast on ESPN2.
Lazar Djokovic and Jadrian Tracey accounted for 10 of VCU’s first 12 points as the Rams repeatedly generated second chances, finishing the half with 10 offensive rebounds that led to nine points. Barry Evans set the tone on the glass, and Ahmad Nowell capped the half with a buzzer-beating three to give VCU a 39–29 lead at the break.
VCU used an 8–0 run in the opening minutes of the second half to push the lead to 49–34, but Richmond responded and steadily cut into the margin. The Rams went more than 10 minutes without a made field goal down the stretch, but stayed in control by scoring their next 9 points from the free-throw line after the Spiders reached the bonus with 9:22 remaining.
Richmond closed within four in the final minutes, but a late three from Michael Belle, a tough finish by Terrence Hill Jr., and clutch free throws from Brandon Jennings allowed VCU to close out the win.
Key Performances
- Lazar Djokovic: 14 pts / 3 reb / 1 ast
- Terrence Hill Jr.: 14 pts / 3 reb
- Brandon Jennings: 12 pts / 2 reb / 2 ast
- Nyk Lewis: 11 pts / 5 reb
- Jadrian Tracey: 11 pts / 3 reb / 2 ast
Team Notes
- VCU never trailed through this contest
- Free-throw differential favored teh Rams (+12 attempts)
- VCU bench outscored the Spiders (29–24)
- Rebounding battle slightly favored VCU (32–31)
Up Next
With the win, VCU improves to 6–2 in A-10 play and 15–6 overall. The Rams return to action on Friday, January 30, traveling to Loyola Chicago for the Coaches vs. Cancer game. Tip-off is set for 9:00 p.m. ET and the game will be broadcast on ESPN2.
