Vermont-UB game analysis
Arena on Sunday evening. Mark Mulville/Buffalo News
Game Analysis: Scoring, a bugaboo for the Bulls last year, might be an issue again in 2009-10. The Bulls made just 17 field goals on 55 attempts as they lost their season opener to Vermont, 58-57
How UB Lost: Has anyone seen UB’s offense? Anyone? The backcourt of Rodney Pierce, John Boyer, Sean Smiley and Zach Filzen were a combined 4 of 31 from the field and 2 of 14 from three-point range. The defense might be able to carry the team on most nights, but someone – anyone – has to emerge as a consistent scorer if the Bulls want to win the MAC.
Turning Point: After a John Boyer to Titus Robinson alley oop, the Bulls trailed 52-46 but it seemed to ignite the team and Alumni Arena as well.
Player of the Game: Marqus Blakely (17 points, 12 rebounds and seven assists) is better than advertised.
Stat of the Game: Seriously, did you see what the Bulls guards shot?
Cool note: Vermont’s Simeon Marsalis is the son of jazz legend and trumpeter Wynton Marsalis.
He Said It: “I wasn’t happy with them after the game.’’ – UB coach Reggie Witherspoon.
In the House: Former Niagara and Utah Jazz coach Frank Layden was among the 2,996 at Alumni Arena.
Up Next for Bulls: The Bulls hit the road for a non-league game at Navy on Nov. 19.
---Rodney McKissic
