The basketball courts of Dayton, Ohio witnessed a thrilling game as VCU Rams emerged victorious against the Flyers with a close score of 73-68. Zeb Jackson's stellar performance, scoring 17 points, played a pivotal role in this win. The Rams' triumph solidified their position, bringing their record to 19-5 overall and 9-2 in the Atlantic 10 Conference.
Jackson, coming off the bench, not only led in scoring but also contributed significantly with five rebounds. His teammate, Max Shulga, was also instrumental, scoring 16 points while securing eight rebounds and three steals. Phillip Russell chipped in with 10 points, shooting 4 of 10 from the field, and successfully making two out of six attempts from beyond the arc.
On the opposing side, Dayton's efforts were spearheaded by Nate Santos, who posted 18 points and seven rebounds. Javon Bennett supported the endeavor with 16 points and an impressive five steals, giving the Flyers a fair chance at clinching the game. Meanwhile, Zed Key rounded out their top performers with eight points, six rebounds, and a couple of blocks.
At halftime, VCU held a slim lead with a score of 31-28, thanks to Russell's eight first-half points. However, the second half was where the Rams truly showcased their prowess. A critical 12-0 run shifted the momentum, overturning a five-point deficit and establishing a lead of 66-59 with just over a minute remaining in the game. Jackson's contribution of 13 points in the second half was instrumental in maintaining this lead till the final buzzer.
Looking ahead, both teams prepare for their forthcoming matches on Wednesday. VCU is set to face George Washington, while Dayton hits the road for a matchup against Fordham. These upcoming games are essential as both teams aim to strengthen their standings in the highly competitive Atlantic 10 Conference.
This intense matchup not only highlighted individual talents but also demonstrated teamwork and strategic plays that kept fans at the edge of their seats. VCU’s win not only boosts their confidence but also sets a promising tone as they head deeper into the season.