Midwestern State Stifles Eastern New Mexico, 66-41
Upon a renewed commitment to defense, the Midwestern State Mustangs returned home and clamped down on the Eastern New Mexico University Greyhounds, 66-41.
The Mustangs (11-4, 3-0) put on a defensive clinic against the Greyhounds (6-7, 0-2), holding ENMU to an ice cold 19.3% shooting for the game. You read that right, 19.3% FOR THE GAME. This sets a MSU record for opponents low field goal percentage during the school's NCAA era.
"Tonight was a great example of how our guys took on personal challenges, like guarding (Rodney) Blackmon," said MSU head coach Nelson Haggerty. "We were committed to no open looks. The team defense was great all over the court, even off the ball."
Eastern New Mexico only made 11 baskets for the whole game. The Mustang defense only allowed 4 buckets in the second half. MSU won every statistical matchup for the game; steals, assists, rebounds, blocks, etc.
Four players scored in double digits for the 'Stangs, including Cam Adderley's game-high 14. Xavier Blackburn continued to impress the coaching staff, 8 points and 11 rebounds, earning him a spot in the starting lineup.
"Xavier is one of our 2 most consistent players. He presents a mismatch problem for a lot of our opponents with his size and rebounding ability," said Haggerty. "He has stayed aggressive all year and that is what has led him to take the starting role."
Next up for the Mustangs are conference rivals Tarleton State. MSU will host TSU this Wednesday, January 15, at Ligon Coliseum at 7:30pm. The Texans always draw a big crowd here in Wichita Falls, and the Mustangs are well aware the challenge that awaits.
"They (TSU) are scoring almost 20 more points per game than they did last year. They are always a great team, top to bottom, and we look forward to another fantastic game like the ones we have had in the past," said Nelson Haggerty. "It will be a fun game, we look forward to the challenge of guarding those guys."
You can follow the Mustangs online at www.msumustangs.com
More From Newstalk 1290
