Eastern Kentucky University’s men’s basketball team clinched a two-game road sweep with a commanding 81-72 victory against the University of North Alabama (UNA) on Saturday. The Colonels, maintaining an unblemished record in Atlantic Sun Conference play at 4-0, showcased their prowess on the court, setting the stage for an anticipated return to Richmond to host in-state conference rival Bellarmine.
Key Highlights and Player Contributions:
- Unbeaten Conference Streak:
- EKU’s victory over UNA solidified their unbeaten status in Atlantic Sun Conference play, boasting a commendable 4-0 record.
- Upcoming Home Clash:
- The Colonels will return to Richmond to host in-state conference rival Bellarmine on First Responders Night, scheduled for Saturday, January 20, with tip-off at Baptist Health Arena at 7 p.m. ET.
- Standout Performances:
- Michael Moreno led the team with 17 points, showcasing accuracy from beyond the arc by hitting 5-of-7 3-pointers.
- Isaiah Cozart achieved his third consecutive double-double, contributing 14 points, 11 rebounds, three blocks, and two steals.
- Leland Walker added 15 points and six assists, while Devontae Blanton posted 14 points and nine rebounds.
- Game-Changing Run:
- EKU grabbed an early 13-5 lead, with UNA narrowing the gap to two at 17-15.
- The Colonels responded with a pivotal 16-4 run, highlighted by contributions from Collin Cooper, Isaiah Cozart, Montavious Myrick, and Devontae Blanton.
- This run propelled EKU to a 33-19 lead with 6:09 remaining in the first half.
- First-Half Dominance:
- EKU maintained control in the first half, ending with a 45-33 lead.
- Tayshawn Comer’s old-fashioned 3-point play extended the lead to 14 points, capping off the first half.
- Moreno’s 3-Point Surge:
- Back-to-back 3-pointers from Michael Moreno expanded EKU’s lead to 18 points (58-40) with 12:49 left in the game.
- The Colonels showcased offensive efficiency and defensive prowess.
- Late UNA Rally:
- Despite a late push from UNA, with Tim Smith Jr.’s leaning 3-pointer bringing them within six points, EKU maintained control.
- UNA was unable to bridge the gap further, securing the victory for EKU.
- Notable Defensive Stats:
- EKU limited UNA to 37 percent shooting, showcasing a strong defensive performance.
- The Colonels maintained their trend of holding conference opponents to less than 40 percent shooting, emphasizing defensive consistency.
- Leading Scorer for UNA:
- Jacari Lane led all players with 19 points for North Alabama.
- Shooting Efficiency:
- EKU shot 43 percent from the field and an impressive 47 percent (8-for-17) from beyond the 3-point arc.
The victory over UNA highlighted EKU’s well-rounded performance, combining offensive firepower with staunch defense. As the Colonels prepare for the upcoming home clash against Bellarmine, they aim to extend their success in conference play and maintain their dominant form on the court.
