After upsetting the Rams in San Angelo on Saturday, the Wildcats were unable to defend their home court as Angelo State avenged its lost, defeating ACU 90-74 on Monday night.
Angelo shot 59 percent from the field, including 11 three-pointers, as they would score 90 points in the game. ACU took 26 more shots than Angelo, but it would not matter, since the Rams did not miss many shots.
“I was pretty disappointed, I felt like we played really good Saturday over there, and we tried to make a few adjustments but basically stick with the same game plan. I felt that our energy level was not where it needed to be,” said Head Coach Jason Copeland. “I thought, with our depth, we could wear on them, but I think it worked the other way around as they wore on us.”
The Wildcats were able to keep the game close by pressing the Rams and forcing turnovers. ACU forced 28 turnovers as the full court press caused havoc for ASU. ASU was too hot from the field though, as they earned two big runs by the Wildcats in the second half.
“On defense, we need to locate the hot man and focus on getting stops,” senior guard Preston Davis said. “Transition defense will be key against [West Texas].”
ACU played well in the first half, only trailing by 4 at halftime 36-32. However, during the second half, the Rams were able to score enough points to put ACU away.
The loss drops ACU to 9-11 overall and 1-7 in LSC South Division play. ACU came off its first win in conference play as they upset this same ASU Saturday 74-71 in overtime. This snapped a six-game losing streak and also was the first division road win since Feb. 25, 2009. But that win could not carry the Wildcats in Monday’s game.
“I think over [in San Angelo], we did a good job contesting shots, and here in Abilene, we didn’t,” Copeland said. “We let them get shots that were uncontested and unguarded. Good shooters will get into a rhythm, and they shot the ball exceptionally well last night.”
Giordan Cole earned a season high 17 points in the loss. He was able to get going early, making three big dunks in the first half. Cole only was two points away from his career high and also added seven rebounds in the game. Dosh Simms was next for the Wildcats in scoring, adding 13 for the Wildcats.
Richard Thomas stole the show for ASU as he scored 29 points in the game to lead Angelo to victory.
The Wildcats will be back in action Wednesday night against West Texas A&M. The game is set to tip off at 7:30 p.m. in Moody Coliseum.
