By AJ Untermeyer and Spencer Orofino
Slow starts have been the story of Oregon Basketball since their conference opener against Oregon State. In 4 out of their first 5 Pac-12 games, Oregon’s shooting percentage from the field, and play in general, has noticeably increased in the second half.
Tonight was no different as Oregon rallied from a first half deficit to defeat Washington State 68-61.
Ranked #16, Oregon went into the half down 39-29 to un-ranked Washington State.
But, like the majority of their conference games, a defensive turnaround at halftime helped the Ducks clinch a victory. Washington State was 7 for 13 from beyond the 3-point line in the first half, but an improved Duck defense kept them 0 for 11 in the second.
“We flew around, we played with a lot more energy that second half.”
-Coach Dana Altman
Senior and game M.V.P., E.J. Singler seemed to follow his team’s trend, coming alive in the second half scoring 14 of his team-high 19 points, which he largely contributes to his team.
“I tried not to force a lot of stuff. Some teammates got me going with some passes and that’s when I felt good. That’s when coach starts making plays for me.”
While sitting on top of the Pac-12 at 6-0, the first time since 1926 Oregon has started League play undefeated, this may give the Ducks (17-2) a reason to celebrate now.
It’s not guaranteed to last. With another 6 weeks of play left, Coach Altman knows his team can’t count on second half explosions every game.
Oregon greets Washington (4-2/12-7) Saturday at 4p. The Huskies fell once again in Corvallis losing to the Beavers, 74-66. Oregon state claimed its first League win in 6-games to up its season record to 11-8.
AJ Untermeyer Reports from Matthew Knight Arena
(click below to link to hear Game Story)
http://www.buzzsprout.com/7507/74196-oregon-vs-wsu-audio-package
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