It’s late and I’ve tried writing a recap three different times and tossed all three versions. Here’s the short version: Oakland played rather well and got out to a 21 point lead before UMKC came storming back to tie the game at 95 – 95 and force overtime.
In the OT, the Golden Grizzlies got clutch free throw shooting from Derick Nelson and Jonathon Jones to help secure the first conference win of the year.
The final results might have been different had UMKC’s Dane Brumagin not fouled out just seconds before regulation ended. Brumagin did his best Larry Bird impression and hit countless three point shots (actually, seven in total) and finished the game with 40 points. He was unbelievable.
(Note to the rest of the Summit League: Brumagin can shoot and has better hops than you think. In fact, the entire UMKC side can shoot the rock.)
OU got plenty of strong offensive performances, as you might expect posting 114 points. Nelson (a career best 31 points), Erik Kangas (22), Tim Williams (17), Keith Benson (17 with 13 boards) and Jones (13 and 13 assists) were all good.
OU had one really good half, one not so good half and a better than average OT. They also ran into an incredibly hot shooter. I doubt they will see anybody that on fire the rest of the year, especially from beyond the arc.
There was plenty to like — the big lead, the shot blocking, the even offensive distribution — and more than enough — like coughing up a 21 point lead at home — to give Coach Kampe to yell about in practice. (Might I suggest practicing against a zone defense?)
Anyway, that’s all for tonight. I went to the game and really need to get some sleep. Southern Utah visits The O on Saturday. Go Grizzlies!
Here’s the recapcourtesy of CBS Sportsline.
