Tech Men’s basketball hosted Morehead State University Saturday night and lost by a score of 79-53.
The game was close in the first half, but after halftime Morehead State took a commanding lead with a 17-0 run over TTU. MSU used its size advantage over Tech to overpower its opposition in the post, finishing with 46 points scored in the paint.
“They are pretty big inside and they played well with their post players. We missed lay ups and jump shots we usually make,” said starting point guard Jeremiah Samarrippas. Samarrippas lead the Golden Eagles with 11 points, four assists and three steals.
The contest was not an ideal matchup for Tech, putting its fast and athletic lineup against the size and length of MSU, who continued to exploit the mismatch under the hoop. This took the Golden Eagles out of their defensive rhythm as they were forced to play Morehead State’s style of basketball, which lead to 55 percent shooting from the field for MS,U while Tech only made 34 percent of their shots.
6-foot-7 forward Drew Kelly led the visiting Morehead State Eagles with 18 points and four rebounds as he shot 7-for-11 from the field. MSU also benefited from an solid performance from Chad Posthumus as he grabbed nine rebounds, blocked two shots, and poured in 10 points.
“I hate that Tech got dominated like that, but it was still a great game to watch,” said former Sewanee basketball player and current Tech student Wes Grace. “Morehead State has some ridiculous talent at their power positions and it really showed. A lot of people showed up for the game which made it fun too.”
The highlight of the night may have been at halftime when the fans, players and staff honored veterans and those currently serving in the armed forces with a standing ovation in recognition of Military Appreciation Night. Three members of the Wounded Warriors Project were also introduced to celebrate money raised for the foundation by students and TTU basketball fans alike.
The men’s basketball team has two contests later in the week with a road game at UT Martin on Feb. 20, and will play Jacksonville State in Cookeville two days later.
