UC made 10 of its first 20 3-pointers against SMU inside an electric Fifth Third Arena Thursday night. The game aired on ESPN and the team and fans did not disappoint. The players debuted their new ArmouRED jerseys and there was an abundance of red in the stands.
Kevin Johnson hit his first three 3’s of the game to set the tone. UC shot the ball very well in the first half, taking a 34-27 edge, but could not put the dagger in the Mustangs. They shot 46% for the game. UC slowed the tempo way down late in the second half, allowing SMU to get back into the game, coming to within 2, with a 66-64 score with 42 seconds remaining. The rim would not let the last 2 shots taken by SMU go in and UC secured the W.
The Cats had 3 players in double figures. Troy Caupain had a big night offensively with 16 points, 7 rebounds, and 6 assists. Gary Clark was the player of the game, going 8-9 for 18 points, including 2-3 from downtown. He added 5 boards, 2 assists, and a steal. He continues to stretch the court this year as a threat inside and out. Jacob Evans had a rough night, scoring just 2 points and missing a crucial free throw in the final seconds. But even the greatest of players have an off night here and there.
SMU came into the game red hot with a record of 14-3 and 4-0 in the American. #22 UC is now 14-2 and 4-0 in conference, poised to move up the rankings as the Crosstown Shootout approaches at the end of January. Without much help from Evans in the way of point production, this win shows just how deep UC’s team can be, if needed. Next up the Cats travel to ECU on Sunday. The game will air on CBS Sports Network.
The jumbotron also teased new UA throwback white jerseys with the old school C-Paw to be worn against UConn in February 4th. If you haven’t seen them, do it now!
By Andy Smith
For more, follow on:
- Twitter – @bearcatsradio
- Instagram – @bearcatssportsradio
- Snap – @bearcatsradio