The No. 5 seed Virginia Commonwealth Rams destroyed a depleted No. 12 seed Akron Zips team in the second round of the NCAA tournament in the South Region Thursday night, 88-42.
The Rams are known for a tough, turnover forcing defense that causes chaos among opposing offenses. Their defense is difficult for a fully health team, but the Zips were extremely short-handed in their game against VCU. Akron’s starting point guard Alex Abreu was suspended earlier this month due to legal troubles. In addition to that, guard Brian Walsh and center Pat Forsythe were sick from the flu, and guard Deji Ibitayo did not suit out due to back muscle spasms.
VCU took full advantage of Akron, the Rams forced 21 total turnovers, including 11 steals. Three minutes into the game, VCU went on a 15-3 run that gave the Rams a 21-9 lead, and they never looked back. The Rams amassed a 50-25 by halftime that they continue to build in the second half.
Guard Troy Daniels led the Rams with 23 points. Forward Juvonte Reddic contributed 21 points and six rebounds. As a team VCU shot 53.8 percent from the floor and hit eight of 16 3-point shots.
The Zips had five players that scored. Demetrius Tredwell led the team with 15 points and seven boards while Zeke Marshall was the only other player in double figures with 11 points. As a team, the Zips struggled to find their range, missing 12 of 13 attempted 3-pointers.
This win was the most lopsided win by a No. 5 seed over a No. 12 seed in tournament history. The previous record was 35 points.
VCU will face No. 4 seed Michigan on Saturday at 12:15 p.m. (ET). Michigan defeated No. 13 seed South Dakota State in the second round on Thursday, 71-56.
For more information, visit www.NCAA.com.
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