It’s something that coaches stress in practice everyday.They will concentrate on ball control, defense, staying in top level shape and fundamentals.But at the end of every practice, the coaches line up players to shoot free throws right after they have been pushed to their limit.
This part of the game can usually determine the outcome of close games and good teams usually convert when the pressure is at an extreme high.
In the first game of the season, the Sam Houston Bearkats shot an abysmal 25% from the stripe. In Monday’s 80-77 upset win over Missouri, the team rebounded and shot 75%.
It was a win to be proud of and one that could bring much notoriety to SHSU.
Leading the way for the Bearkats was sophomore sensation Ryan Bright, who led all scorers with 28 points.Bright also rebounded well for the Bearkats, pulling in seven.The biggest contribution he made was his three point shooting, where he went six for seven, including a critical one with 30 seconds left.
Once again, the Bearkats out rebounded their opponents 39-34.
John Gardiner of Sam Houston led both teams with 14.Also contributing on the night was transfer student Jejuan Plair, who had 14 points and eight assists. Senior Chris Jordan gave the Bearkats 11 points and five rebounds.
The story of the night had to have been the composure of the Bearkats.Despite playing in a rowdy Big 12 atmosphere, the team was able to get baskets when they were most needed.
The Bearkats next moved on in the tournament in a nationally televised game with Drexel. The game will be on ESPN2, Thursday Nov. 17 at 7 p.m.
Depending on the results, the Kats could eventually play Duke in the later rounds.
Now matter the outcome, SHSU has a lot to be proud of and a lot to build on.