The Rams (8-2) came out charging at the Siegel Center tonight, and Penn could only hang on for the ride. After Penn scored the opening bucket, VCU launched a ferocious 14-0 run, setting the tone for a dominant performance. The Quakers did manage to tie things up at 21 apiece thanks to an 11-0 counter-punch, but a 9-0 Rams run to close the first half put VCU firmly in control. The Rams never looked back, rolling to a decisive 66-47 victory.
Joe Bamisile Takes Center Stage
Joe Bamisile delivered a monster performance, notching a double-double with 23 points and 11 rebounds. Whether battling in the paint or sniping from the perimeter, Bamisile was unstoppable, cementing himself as the engine of VCU’s offense and defense. But he wasn’t alone—Max Shulga and Jack Clark brought their A-game as well.
Shulga was everywhere on the court, finishing with 14 points, seven rebounds, and two steals. He was pivotal during VCU’s key runs, knocking down two timely three-pointers and controlling the tempo on both ends of the floor. Shulga’s versatility gave the Quakers fits all night and ensured the Rams stayed ahead when Penn threatened to rally.
Clark proved he’s the glue guy every team needs, stuffing the stat sheet with six points, 10 rebounds, and a block. His relentless energy on the boards and key defensive plays, including a crucial block in the first half, were instrumental in VCU’s dominance. Clark’s hustle and grit set the tone for the Rams’ physical presence inside.
Together, Bamisile, Shulga, and Clark created a formidable trio that left Penn searching for answers and solidified VCU’s identity as a team that thrives on depth and effort.
Defense Wins the Day
VCU turned the turnover battle into a lopsided affair, forcing 16 Penn turnovers while giving up just 10 of their own. The Rams turned those miscues into 13 points, compared to just nine for Penn. Rebounding? Even more lopsided. VCU dominated the boards 45-29, leading to a staggering 20 second-chance points versus Penn’s three.
Shooting Woes and Paint Dominance
Neither team could buy a three-pointer. VCU went 6-for-25 from deep (24%), while Penn floundered with 5-for-27 (18.5%). But where the Rams faltered from range, they thrived in the paint, pouring in 34 points. That bruising interior play combined with 67 field-goal attempts wore down Penn’s defense.
Phillip Russell Dishes and Delivers
Phillip Russell orchestrated the Rams’ offense with precision, leading the team with seven assists—more than half of VCU’s 12 total dimes. He also chipped in nine points and two steals, showcasing his value as both a playmaker and defender.
Up Next
VCU will return to action on Sat. Dec. 14th, as the Rams head to Las Vegas to take on the Rams of Colorado State. That game is set to tip at 7:30pm ET and will be broadcast on BallerTV.
Joe Bamisile Takes Center Stage
Joe Bamisile delivered a monster performance, notching a double-double with 23 points and 11 rebounds. Whether battling in the paint or sniping from the perimeter, Bamisile was unstoppable, cementing himself as the engine of VCU’s offense and defense. But he wasn’t alone—Max Shulga and Jack Clark brought their A-game as well.
Shulga was everywhere on the court, finishing with 14 points, seven rebounds, and two steals. He was pivotal during VCU’s key runs, knocking down two timely three-pointers and controlling the tempo on both ends of the floor. Shulga’s versatility gave the Quakers fits all night and ensured the Rams stayed ahead when Penn threatened to rally.
Clark proved he’s the glue guy every team needs, stuffing the stat sheet with six points, 10 rebounds, and a block. His relentless energy on the boards and key defensive plays, including a crucial block in the first half, were instrumental in VCU’s dominance. Clark’s hustle and grit set the tone for the Rams’ physical presence inside.
Together, Bamisile, Shulga, and Clark created a formidable trio that left Penn searching for answers and solidified VCU’s identity as a team that thrives on depth and effort.
Defense Wins the Day
VCU turned the turnover battle into a lopsided affair, forcing 16 Penn turnovers while giving up just 10 of their own. The Rams turned those miscues into 13 points, compared to just nine for Penn. Rebounding? Even more lopsided. VCU dominated the boards 45-29, leading to a staggering 20 second-chance points versus Penn’s three.
Shooting Woes and Paint Dominance
Neither team could buy a three-pointer. VCU went 6-for-25 from deep (24%), while Penn floundered with 5-for-27 (18.5%). But where the Rams faltered from range, they thrived in the paint, pouring in 34 points. That bruising interior play combined with 67 field-goal attempts wore down Penn’s defense.
Phillip Russell Dishes and Delivers
Phillip Russell orchestrated the Rams’ offense with precision, leading the team with seven assists—more than half of VCU’s 12 total dimes. He also chipped in nine points and two steals, showcasing his value as both a playmaker and defender.
Up Next
VCU will return to action on Sat. Dec. 14th, as the Rams head to Las Vegas to take on the Rams of Colorado State. That game is set to tip at 7:30pm ET and will be broadcast on BallerTV.
