Game analysis: What a tough way for Frank Turner to end his four-year career at Canisius. The Golden Griffins whittled what was once a 21-point Fairfield lead down to seven with just over five minutes left when Turner, the pulse of the team, was ejected for hitting Fairfield’s Derek Needham in the groin. Canisius was trailing by seven at the time. The Golden Griffins never got closer than eight the rest of the way and lost to the Stags, 67-57.
How Canisius Lost: There will be speculation on what would have happened had Turner been on the floor in the final five minutes of the game, but Canisius was a no-show during the first half offensively. They settled for jump shots, weren’t aggressive enough taking it to the basket and trailed 35-14.
Turning Point: They will be talking about Turner’s ejection for years. He scored 12 points in the second half and was already percolating when he was tossed from the game. It’s automatic: In the event of a flagrant foul, Brad Tracy, the MAAC supervisor of men’s basketball officials said ejection is automatic.
Player of the game: Ed Cooley said Needham put on a cape and turned into Superman. After 29 points in 40 minutes he’s probably right. Did you see that?: Elton Frazier’s back to the basket put back one-handed dunk in the second half will probably show up on You Tube any time now.
End of the road for Turner: Turner’s brilliant four-year career comes to an end. He became the first Canisius player to record over 1,700 points, 500 rebounds and 500 assists. He played in 125 games at the school.
Stat of the Game: Canisius made 10 three-pointers Friday night against Marist but was 5 of 17 vs. Fairfield.
Next Up: End of the season.
---Rodney McKissic
