VCU outlasts Richmond, 78-to-67

Final score: VCU 78, Richmond 67.
Location: Robins Center
Updated records: VCU 20-6, 11-2 in A-10. Richmond 14-12, 4-9 in A-10.

In a nutshell: VCU never trailed in the entire game. However, in the second half the Rams spit out 21 points of a 23-point lead. The Spiders suddenly had all of the momentum. 

Then, in the nick of time, VCU's defense stiffened, the Rams hit some clutch shots and they beat their crosstown rival by 11 points. Still, for a few minutes late in the game, VCU fans know damn well it was more than a little scary. 

In making his second start of the season, VCU's Terrence Hill scored a game-high 20 points, including a late trey that blunted the Spiders rally. He also added five rebounds and three assists. 

Some other noteworthy Rams stats: Jadrian Tracey scored 14 points. Nyk Lewis and Tyrell Ward both added 10 points. Michael Belle furnished seven points, 10 rebounds and blocked one shot.

NOTES: (Information provided by Chris Kowalczyk, VCU Assistant A.D.)

·      VCU shot 46 percent (15-of-33) in the first half, while limiting Richmond to 5-of-25 shooting, on the way to a 47-27 halftime lead. The Rams extended their lead to 53-30 on a Tracey 3-pointer with 18:21 remaining.

·      Richmond used an 11-0 run, capped by a Jaden Daughtry layup, to trim the Rams’ advantage to 53-41 at the 15:47 mark, setting the stage for a tight finish. The Spiders eventually pulled within 64-62 on a bucket by AJ Lopez with 6:06 on the clock. While the Rams bent, they did not break. A floater by junior forward Michael Belle on VCU’s ensuing possession provided a four-point cushion. A short time later, Hill buried a 3-pointer from the left wing to give the Black and Gold a 72-65 edge with 1:55 left. UR could get no closer than five the rest of the way.

·      On the night, VCU held Richmond to 35-percent (19-of-55) shooting, including 5-of-22 from 3-point range.

·      The Rams also owned a 41-32 rebounding advantage.

·      Will Johnston led the Spiders with 17 points, including 12 in the second half. 

·      The Rams have won nine straight games.

·      VCU completed a regular season sweep of the Spiders with Saturday’s win and improved to 64-33 all-time against UR. 

BOXSCORE

NEXT UP: On Tuesday, February 17, VCU will host George Washington at 8 p.m. at the Siegel Center. TV: CBS Sports Network. 

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