Fordham began 2019 with a disappointing 76-51 loss to VCU, at Rose Hill Gym. In their Atlantic 10 conference-opener, Fordham failed to build off of their good start to the season.
Fordham guard Nick Honor — Image credit: Fordham University
Once the game started VCU went into their full-court press, this clearly bothered the guards of Fordham.
Nick Honor looked fragile against VCU’s defense. The freshman point guard turned over the ball and missed on shots he usually makes. Honor second-guessed himself when it came to attacking the basket. He only made one field goal while the rest of team shot 5-for-23 from the field. Fordham also committed 12 turnovers by halftime.
VCU jumped out to an early lead and controlled the rest of the game. Fordham could never get it going.
Head coach Jeff Neubauer took blame for why his team struggled against the press of VCU.
“I never prepared a team as poorly for full court pressure as we were prepared tonight,” said Neubauer.
A team that once looked poised at the beginning of the season looked mentally broken and showed no continuity on the court.
What was puzzling about this game was Neubauer’s decision to play Erten Gazi. He hadn’t seen any minutes this season.
Gazi looked lost, he missed open three’s, and had two turnovers. A strange decision given that this was a big conference game and Gazi is not a part of the main rotation, especially when it comes to pressure situations.
“I certainly mishandled Erton as well,” said Neubauer, who felt Gazi was ready because he practiced really well during the week.
VCU exposed Fordham’s frontcourt, they went for a combined 4-for-10 from the field. Ivan Raut had a quiet game scoring only three points. That needs to improve if they’re going to compete with the best in this conference. The guards can’t be the only players putting up numbers.
And One’s
Onyi Eyisi was the one positive in this game for the Rams, he stayed aggressive and made every shot. Although Eyisi scored only nine points and had six rebounds, his effort stood out in a game where Fordham looked lifeless.
