Austin, TX – After nearly a week since either team has played a game, the Texas Longhorns put together their highest scoring effort of the season garnering them 98-60 victory over the Grand Canyon Lopes.
It was the most complete games the Longhorns have put together this season, Texas set a season best shooting percentage both from the floor (59 percent) and from behind-the-arc (53 percent). Additionally, the 56 points scored in the first half of Saturday’s game were the most points scored in a single half for the Longhorns this season.
The Texas offense did more than just log season best shooting percentages. The Longhorns set season bests in three point field goals made (14), team assists (22) bench points (44) and points in the paint (36). Five different players scored in double digits during Saturday’s contest while seven players scored a basket from three-point range. Jase Febres tied a season high in three pointers made (3) as well as a season high in total points (16).
After holding their own against the nationally ranked Nevada Wolfpack in their last game, the Lopes struggled from the opening tip going down by 15 points midway through the first half. Despite forcing 11 Texas turnovers, Grand Canyon was unable to convert any of those opportunities into points.
Coming off the bench for the first time this season, Kerwin Roach scored 15 points on six-of-eight shooting from the field. Most of Roach’s minutes came alongside two other ball handling guards allowing him play a “scoring wing” role. With less responsibility to handle the ball, Roach was able to focus on getting in good position to score effectively. His catch-and-shoot efficiency has improved over the past few weeks, and he has shown the ability to drive past defenders who are closing out hard resulting in good looks at the rim.
In his first start since the opening game of the season, Elijah Mitrou-Long scored a career high 16 points and three made three-pointers. In extended minutes, Mitrou-Long has shown the ability to knock down difficult shots off the dribble or going to his step back jumper. His above average court vision is being showcased with the first team as he continues to find slashing wings on their way to the basket.
One of the few bright spots for the Lopes was the performance of senior forward Michael Finke. Scoring 17 points on nine shots, the Grand Canyon big man showcased his ability to score trom multiple spots on the court. A legitimate pick-and-pop threat against defenses who don’t aggressively hedge, Finke knocked down three shots from downtown. Although he has struggled to convert those shots over the course of this season, he is a 35 percent three-point shooter for his collegiate career.
Texas (7-3) will host Providence this coming Friday (12/21). Grand Canyon (5-5) will head north to take on Northern Iowa on Wednesday (12/19) in their first conference game of the season.
This article was written by Justin Ullestad, a correspondent and scout for NetScouts Basketball. You can follow us on Facebook, or on twitter. We are looking for those interested in our basketball scout apprenticeship program. For information contact us and forward your resume.
