Georgia College basketball fans have really found out how special the men’s team is this year over the month of February. From close games, interesting calls, and a talented bunch of guys, Georgia College has prevailed in all situations imaginable.
And didn’t stop this past Wednesday night against Montevallo. With four players in double-figures and the shooting miseries vanquished, the Bobcats seem to be back on the right track heading into the last game of the season at North Georgia on Saturday gearing up for the postseason.
During the 73-65 victory, the Bobcats were led by seniors Graham Martin and Ty Rowland’s 16 points, followed by the 12 of junior forward Ryan Aquino. Senior guard Jake Rios also popped in a quiet 11.
GCSU (21-4, 14-2 Peach Belt Conference-west) shot 43.6 percent from the field overall, and 32 percent from behind the arc. The fundamental Bobcats were also 90 percent from the free-throw stripe at 18-of-20.
Now, the Bobcats board the Charter bus to Dahlonega Saturday morning and head to the campus of North Georgia College and State University (15-11, 10-6 PBC-west).
This Saints team is no pushover. Averaging just 2.5 points under the Bobcats, North Georgia has had no problem putting up points. Their main problem has been playing defense.
With the Bobcats looking to pick apart that Saints “D,” here are the keys for GCSU to be successful:
1) Georgia College must limit the forward game of North Georgia. Seniors Andrew Bennett (10.6 points, 5.8 rebounds, 1.9 blocks) and Bernard Rimmer (12.1 points, 7.4 rebounds, 1.5 blocks, 1.6 assists) present some defensive problems for the Bobcats down low. Junior forward Josh Hurst of GC must be on top of his defensive game, along with sophomore forward Ryan Aquino. Senior forward Rob Thomas coming off the bench must show strength as well defensively. GCSU’s forwards cannot afford to get into foul trouble.
(Note: 64 percent of NGCSU’s points come via the forward position!)
2) I would like to see the Bobcats take pride in their defensive effort for the full 40 minutes. Over this past month, Georgia College has been giving up many easy buckets. It would be nice to tweak that before the playoffs begin.
3) An unknown factor to this game is “Road Pride/Warrior Mentality.” With the team most likely sick and tired of being on the bus this season, this is a type of game that can sneak up on you. Georgia College must have a focused mindset the whole game to be successful, even before the tip.
4) Both teams can shoot from outside the arc. The Saints are at a 35 percent clip, while GCSU is at a 39.5 percent mark. If I were a betting man, I’d put it on the experience of Rowland, Rios and Martin. If the three ball falls for the Bobcats, look for the confidence to sky-rocket.
Let’s continue the good shooting, play strong defense, get a win, and come back home to get ready for the playoffs!
Talk with you from Dahlonega on Saturday afternoon at 3:20 on Country 102.3 fm or online at www.country102fm.com (wkzr link). As always, will be joined by one of my broadcasting mentors and fathers, Scott MacLeod!
Nothing better than hoops on your Saturday!
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