In a classic Atlantic 10 conference battle, George Washington (10-11), led by a career high 35 points from junior guard Maceo Jack (pictured above), pulled away in FOUR overtimes 107-104 over Davidson (10-10).
Jack shot 12-19 from the field and 7-13 from 3-point territory. Freshman forward Jamison Battle posted 25 points, 7 rebounds and 2 assists, freshman center Chase Paar added 13 points and 16 rebounds and explosive freshman point guard Jameer Nelson Jr finished with 12 points, 10 rebounds and 6 assists.
Davidson senior floor general Jon Axel Gudmundsson led the Wildcats with 31 points, 10 rebounds and 6 assists while junior guard Kellan Grady added 28 points and 4 assists.
The Colonials won in almost every statistical category. They shot better from 3-point range (GW-40%/ Davidson - 38%), out rebounded the Wildcats 54-43, and dished out more assists 20-14.
Here are my takeaways from the game.
Maceo Jack: was locked in from the start of the game to the very end. He was consistent offense throughout regulation, (18 first half points), and when GW needed a basket in the overtime period's, he delivered, which included a big three pointer to send the game into overtime. Jacks defense was exceptional as well, he had two key blocks down the stretch of the game. If Jack is able to maintain this level of efficiency on both ends, GW will be a dangerous team as the A-10 Conference Tournament approaches.
Amir Harris:
impact won't be talked about in his memorable win as much as it should due to most equating great impact in numbers. It should be mentioned though, considering, without his play at point guard on both ends filling in for the injured Armel Potter, George Washington does'nt win this game. Yes, Harris scored two points and went 0-10 from the field, however, it was his playmaking, defense and poise handling Davidson's full court and 3/4 court press that allowed GW to stay in rhythm once Potter went down. Harris played 41 minutes, dished out 6 assists, blocked three shots, committed only TWO turnovers and helped hold Gudmundsson to 11-29 shooting from the field. Most players would've fell off with their shooting being off, Harris demonstrated a mental toughness that can only be found in winning cultures.
Freshman Big Three:
just continues to amaze and lets you know, it's only a matter of time until George Washington is back in the NCAA Tournament hunt, and these three will more than likely be leading the charge. Battle, Paar and Nelson Jr combined for 50 points, 33 rebounds, 8 assist and three turnovers in the Colonials quadruple overtime win. That's nearly half of the teams production. These three freshman are special and with the experience they're gaining, becoming more and more productive as they learn the in's and out's of A-10 conference play. It's not just the production, it's WHEN they're being productive as well. Battle hit clutch shots and free throws, Nelson Jr with no hesitation drove strong to the cup with 20 seconds left in the third overtime and knocked down a runner in traffic to force a fourth overtime and Paar grabbed key rebounds down the stretch in regulation and overtime, to keep GW alive. They're a fearless trio and a trio the A-10 will have hell dealing with for the remainder of their careers.
George Washington will hit the road to face 15-6 Richmond's this Saturday at 6pm. Game will be televised on ESPN+
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