For the first time since 1992, the Shenandoah men’s basketball team defeated Randolph Macon. The Hornets put on a dominating performance in Ashland on Wednesday night, cruising past the Yellow Jackets, 71-59.
From the first tip, it was obvious that Rob Pryor‘s squad was on a mission. SU (5-17, 2-11 ODAC) was in complete control over Macon (11-11, 7-6), never trailing once during the 40-minute span.
“That is what we expect to do,” Pryor said after the game. “It takes time to jell, it takes time to figure it out. And guys are starting to figure it out. I’m very proud of them, they put out a great effort and played as a team.”
For Pryor and company, tonight’s win exceeds last year’s total of four victories. Despite a rough outing againstGuilfordon Saturday, the Hornets remained poised and focused. They believed that they could compete with anyone in the conference, and executed the game plan to perfection.
While the night was filled with positives, one of the brightest spots was Shenandoah’s defensive effort. Yellow Jackets’ forward Daniel Noe, who was named ODAC Player Of The Week on Monday, was held to just seven points on the night.
Jaime Wilson led Macon with 15 points, but no other player reached double digits.
Pryor understands that his team’s effort didn’t magically happen overnight. With the exception of the Guilford game, Shenandoah has been playing good basketball. Against Bridgewater, the Hornets fell to an overtime buzzer beater. They bounced back and knocked off Randolph in extra time. In the matchup with EMU, a key free throw at the end of regulation propelled the Royals to victory.
“It’s been coming for a while, we have just been on the wrong end,” Pryor said. “We always tell the guys they need to make their own luck. Tonight they did that.”
Malcolm Clark continued to shine, finishing the night with 24 points and seven rebounds. Antwan Pittmanshowed versatility from beyond the arc and in the paint, adding 15 points and nine boards. Thomas Kelsey put together a noteworthy performance, ending the game with 15 points.
The Hornets shot 56.6 percent for the game, while Randolph Macon shot just 36.7 percent.
For tonight, Shenandoah will relish in victory. But Pryor understands the importance of finishing the regular season with momentum and is already setting his sites on Lynchburg, who will make the trek to Shingleton Gymnasium on Saturday.
“Now the trick is being consistent,” Pryor said. “Lynchburg will be a great test for us. We are looking to getting home and playing in that great environment.”
Saturday’s contest will begin at 2 p.m where the Hornets will celebrate their “Red Out” game.
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For the first time since 1992, the Shenandoah men’s basketball team defeated Randolph Macon. The Hornets put on a dominating performance in Ashland on Wednesday night, cruising past the Yellow Jackets, 71-59.
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