The University of Missouri-Kansas City Kangaroos subdued a lackluster home team 83-59 tonight in the UTRGV Fieldhouse.
The victors led for almost all 40 minutes during tonight’s Battle of the Colleges game. The loss leaves the Vaqueros with an overall record of 14-15 and 5-7 in the Western Athletic Conference.
Head Coach Lew Hill said his team lacked the energy to win.
“We came out playing with no energy,” Hill said. “We didn’t play together. I don’t know what team this was. They outcoached us. They outplayed us. They outdid everything.”
More than 1,100 fans filled the gym with school spirit during a rough first half for the Vaqueros. UMKC forward Jordan Giles began the barrage by sinking a basket within the first 20 seconds of the game. UTRGV forward Terry Winn responded with his own bucket and a free throw. Despite the home team’s effort, things were bleak in the Fieldhouse as the Vaqueros suffered a 14-point deficit early in the first half. The Roos dominated the first half 42-19.
UTRGV guard Javon Levi tries to break through UMKC's defense to pass the ball to one of his teammates. The Vaqueros will face face Chicago State University at 7 p.m. Saturday in the Fieldhouse.
Vaquero guard Greg Bowie opened the second half with two back-to-back threes. However, things were not much better for the squad as it trailed 60-38 with 12 minutes left on the clock. A powerful offense and potent defense gave the visitors the victory, 83-59.
UTRGV guard Nick Dixon, who led the team with 20 points and seven rebounds, said he was surprised to see his team trail behind UMKC.
“I didn’t know what was wrong,” Dixon said. “It was really shocking to me and the team.”
On the visiting side, guard Broderick Robinson led his team with 18 points and nine rebounds.
Coach Hill said they won’t let this loss affect their future performances.
“We’ve got another game on Saturday,” Hill said. “We’ll learn from this. We’ll be up all night watching film, coming up with a game plan. That’s what we build on.”
The Vaqueros will take on Chicago State University at 7 p.m. Saturday in the Fieldhouse.
