Illinois State’s defense is dominating this game. WSU can barely get into its offense at times. The Redbirds are bigger, quicker and more athletic and they are using that to great advantage. They are in the passing lanes and forcing WSU to catch passes way out on the court. Inside, Anthony Slack’s shot-blocking is quite discouraging for WSU. WSU gets a few open shots and not nearly enough are going in.
WSU’s defense is keeping it this close, although ISU founds ways around that zone late in the half. Brandon Sampay, who was almost a Shocker, has 10 points off the bench. He got off to a slow start this season, due in part of an injury and off-court problems. His improvement adds depth to an already deep Redbirds team.
Fifteen turnovers. Thirty-five percent shooting. That tells the story for WSU. The one bright spot is that Mantas Griskenas hit a couple threes.
Check that view of the crowd. Lots of empty seats in the upper deck at Redbird Arena. WSU fans are so passionate, it’s always strange to see empty seats in a first-place gym. I thought ISU was a better basketball school.
One Comment
WSU fans are very passionate, and I enjoy the crowd every game. But Normal has what, 50,000 people while Wichita has 400,000? Makes it easier to fill an arena. I like this blog a lot, Paul. Keep up the good work.