Shaka Smart, the Head Coach for the Marquette Golden Eagles, has had a great career since moving to Marquette, especially when facing Georgetown. They have been 7-0 against the Hoyas since he was hired. Georgetown’s star freshman, Sorber, who snagged 13 rebounds last time these two teams met, was injured and would have helped control some of the interior that Marquette had usually been known to have struggled with this year.
The game started as many do for MU, which strongly focuses on controlling the pace and defense. The Hoyas were doing a great job hustling and getting rebounds, yet they could not seem to make a basket. If Marquette had cared for the ball better, the Golden Eagles could have used this to gain a significant early lead. Unfortunately, they had three turnovers before the game’s fourth minute passed. If Georgetown shot better, they would have the opportunity to take back the lead, but unfortunately, they just continued to shoot terribly in the first half. Coach Smart’s quick substitutions created an almost constant rotation of fresh legs and were pivotal in Marquette’s ability to capitalize on Georgetown’s lack of shooting percentage. The half ended 39-22, and Marquette’s defense was a major factor In the first-half score, forcing Georgetown’s shooting percentage to an abysmal 19%. This ruined the second chance point battle for the Hoyas as well, who, despite their challenges, had an impressive first half of rebounding and steals.
Georgetown started clicking in the second half. Their shooting percentage dramatically increased, and they took command of the pace once the first few minutes of the second half passed. They continued to dominate the paint, even outscoring the Golden Eagles by six in that area for the half (26-20). Marquette’s Kam Jones and David Joplin did not let this game get away from them. Kam hit a career-high 13 assists with 13 points, while Jop almost hit another double-double with 15 points and nine rebounds, leading their charge and sealing the deal for Shaka’s 8th consecutive win over the Hoyas.
Knuckleball Prime Time Player of the Game
Shaka Smart’s streak continues, and even more importantly, this game ended their three-game losing streak on the road. Now, Marquette can focus on ending the season strong with less anxiety about being knocked out of AP’s top 25. If they can tighten up and win these last few games, they may have a significant position in perfect time for the Madness this March.
Next Up: Marquette ends their road stint against UCONN Wednesday, March 5th at 7:30pm CT
The Barn 