Quick Hits: Dragons fly past the Colonials

Photo credit: David Auth

Logan Carney, Sports Manager

PHILADELPHIA — The Robert Morris men’s basketball team (4-4) fell to the Drexel Dragons (4-4) by the score of 82-69. Here are the quick hits from the game:

Why it happened

The Colonials started off strong but fell behind significantly in the second half. They played well in the first half, shooting 41.9% and limited Drexel to 1-7 from the three-point line, but still trailed 42-34. Drexel came out of halftime with a 14-8 start, headlined by four consecutive three-pointers, and began to pull away from Robert Morris.

What it means

The loss is a tough one for Robert Morris as this was the most comparable team that they have faced thus far. That being said, the Colonials played well for much of the game and didn’t give up when they faced adversity. Not only that, Drexel is a non conference opponent, so the loss won’t hurt them in the standings as conference play doesn’t start till January.

Who starred

The Drexel Dragons starred in the second half of this one and on the boards the entire game. The team grabbed 23 rebounds in the first half to the Colonials 12 and continued that trend into the second as they finished with 43 total rebounds.

As for their second half play, the team improved on shooting as they went 1-7 on three-pointers and then proceeded to make four consecutive three-pointers to start off the second half which was the pinnacle moment of the game.

Who stumbled

The Colonials rebounding stumbled as they were dominated in the paint the entire game and that proved to be the difference maker. They were outrebounded 43-26. Drexel came into this game with a strong group of big men and RMU struggled to stop them.

Who was there

For two smaller D-1 schools, the atmosphere at Daskalakis Athletic Center was strong. Both teams had fans show up including some members of the Philadelphia 76ers. T.J. McConnell, brother of RMU star player Matty McConnell, and Ben Simmons were among those in attendance.

Who is next

The Colonials will take on the Canisius Golden Griffins (1-6) in their next game. The Golden Griffins are coming off a 70-55 loss to the St. Bonaventure Bonnies (2-5). The Colonials will be looking to rebound and get back over .500 in that game.