 KENT STATE 77, TOLEDO 61 Evans racked up a career-high 23 points on 9-10 from the field while adding four steals and assists -- all in just 26 minutes of action. Three of Evans’ steals came during the three minute stretch at the start of the second half that turned a two-point lead into a 13-point advantage. Kent State forced five consecutive Toledo turnovers during the stretch to fuel the game-changing run that included three straight breakaway dunks from senior guard Carlton Guyton Evans and junior forward Patrick Jackson.
Senior guard Michael Porrini , who had 14 points and eight assists, added a steal and break away lay-up in the run. He later knocked down the first of his two three-pointers to give the Golden Flashes a 16-point cushion with 13:44 to play.
When the Rockets started getting to the foul line and closed the gap to 10 with 8:33 remaining, Kent State went inside to forward Justin Greene. The senior answered with two of his 14 points. After another Toledo turnover, one of 19 forced by Kent State, Evans completed a three-point play by grabbing an offensive rebound for a put-back and nailed the free throw to end comeback threat.
The Golden Flashes who shot over 50 percent for the fourth time in five games, swiped 13 steals and held an 18-4 advantage in points off turnovers in the second half. The high-flying Evans, who did have one dunk in the game, also did damage beyond the arc in the first half when he shot 3-3 to help give Kent State a 35-31 lead going into the break.
The Golden Flashes continue their road trip this week when they face Central Michigan at 7 p.m. on Tuesday. Toledo is at Akron Wednesday (7 p.m.).
Courtesy of Kent State Athletics |
