VCU loses to FSU

Nathan Heintschel
Contributing Writer

VCU lost to Florida State University 85-67 in the quarterfinal of the Puerto Rico Tip-Off.

    On a night where ESPN’s broadcasting experienced major technical difficulties and large portions of the game were unseen by viewers, VCU experienced the same technical difficulties in running its offense and defense. The final score showed an 18 point deficit, but at one point, VCU was down by over 30 points.

    The disparity between VCU and FSU’s field goal percentage proved to be the biggest factor in deciding VCU’s loss. FSU shot 28-52 or 53 percent while VCU shot 20-72 or 27 percent. Contributing to VCU’s poor field goal percentage was their three point shot percentage that finished at 5-24 or roughly 20 percent.

    FSU outerbounded VCU 47-30 which contributed to many of their points being scored in transition. FSU finished the game with 36 points in the paint off of layups and dunks.

      VCU’s havoc wasn’t able to take over the game like they’re accustomed to. FSU committed 20 turnovers, but VCU only had 11 steals which is three less than VCU’s season average of 14 steals per game.

    Once the broadcast resumed, after its seven minute blackout during the second half, it was evident that VCU was experiencing the exhaustion that they often subject their opponents to. The starters were playing flat and once the game was clearly out of hand, Coach Shaka Smart began subbing in his bench. It was these substitutes that cut the deficit to 18 points before the game ended.

    VCU’s top scorers included Treveon Graham with 12 points, Melvin Johnson with 11 points, and Rob Brandenburg with 10 points. Brandenburg shot 3-7 or 42 percent while Graham and Johnson both shot 4-11 or 36 percent.

    FSU had four players score in double figures. FSU’s top scorers were Ian Miller with 22 points, Devon Bookert with 18 points, Montay Brandon with 14 points, and Okaro White with 11 points. All four players shot over 50 percent.

    VCU ended up finishing the game with 20 fouls. FSU finished with 18. Adding insult to injury, Juvonte Reddic fouled out with 6:37 left in the second half.

 VCU’s next game is against Long Beach State University in the Puerto Rico Tip-Off on Friday November 22.