Final Score: Drexel 74, Delaware 64
Player of the Game: Terrell Allen
Key to the Game: Interior Offense and “Swag”
Next Game: Saturday Feb 27 vs Northeastern
In one of the most exciting games at the DAC this season, Drexel began its first winning streak in over a calendar year. So what did the Dragons do right? For starters, the offense was consistent in getting the ball inside to Rodney Williams, where he went a respectable 5-12 from the field and 5-8 from the line, a sign that he is becoming more comfortable absorbing contact and drawing those fouls that are needed to make the opposing big men think a little bit on defense. It has been said many times before, Rodney Williams is a joy to watch on offense, and there are few forwards in that league that can defend him on a consistent basis. The coaching staff has noticed this and has begun to make Rodney more of a focal point in the offense, and they deserve credit for instilling the inside game in the team's play.
Before the game, I mentioned that the winner on the boards would win the game, and while Drexel and Delaware tied with 37 rebounds a piece, the difference came in the rest of the box score: this truly was an all around team victory. First, they were careful with ball, only committing 6 turnovers in the game. Second, the Dragons assisted on 18 of their 25 field goals (72%), well above their season average of 56%. This was the first game all season that the team looked like they were in sync with each other, making the extra pass to the open man, looking for the outlet pass on lane penetration, and just having more fun.
Another standout star for the Dragons is yet again freshmen point guard Terrell Allen. He continued his recent hot streak, scoring 19 points on FIVE (5!!!!) shots, with 3 assists and 0 turnovers. Terrell has been the brightest spot of this rough season, and gives Dragons fans hope for the future of this program. Even beyond the boxscore, Terrell is playing with a poise and maturity beyond his years. At the end of the game, with time running out and Terrell dribbling the time away, he faced the alumni section and president's suite, put out his hand with the look of a simple “We got this”. This program is in good hands with Terrell at the helm.
One final note: A play in which Tavon Allen blocked a three point shot and took the ball all the way the other way for an easy layup was by far the loudest the DAC has been this year and was the highlight for a senior who has finally settled into his role on the team. Tavon is taking smarter shots, and being more active in all phases of the game. Saturday is senior night, and Tavon and Kazembe Abif will be looking to end their careers on high notes, and make this team a dangerous, dangerous low seed in Baltimore.
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