Second Half Adjustments Lead to Win
January 29, 2018
The Warhawks snapped a four-game losing streak in a very exciting game against Troy. Broken records and enjoyable pace led to a comeback win. ULM got strong play from the backcourt, completing a 15-point comeback in the second half.
“That was a tremendous win, and those players in the locker room needed it more than me,” ULM head coach Keith Richard said. “With the four-game losing streak, the players felt like they were carrying the weight of the world on their shoulders.
I’m so happy for the team. Those guys played a great second half.
Troy started fast with a 12-2 run early in the first half. The Trojans kept the pressure on for the entire first half taking a 14 point lead into halftime.
ULM shot 27 percent in the first half and were outrebounded 25-16. Missed shots, turnovers, missed chances, and poor post defense highlighted the first half of ULM.
The tone of the game completely changed in the second half. Halftime adjustments were key for ULM to get back into the game. “Those guys wore us out inside, so we decided to double the post…and scramble out to contest their three-point shooters,”said coach Richard.
Another important change was going with a guard-heavy lineup, quickening pace and opening up space at the same time.
ULM took advantage of these adjustments taking a little over two minutes in the second half to get back in the game.
Three-point shooting kick-started the comeback and excellent energy was on display for the home team. Intensity on both ends of the court picked up for ULM.
ULM turned it around shooting 50 percent while scoring 52 points in the second half. Roles reversed after halftime with ULM dominating after the break.
Three-point shooting and rebounding were the keys to the game for both teams.
Four Warhawks had solid games and helped complete the comeback in the second half.
Michael Ertel scored with ease setting a new career high with 22 points.
“We’re happy with the progress he’s made driving the ball,” said Richard. Ertel was comfortable driving, pulling up, hitting threes, and assisting teammates.
Travis Munnings played huge as well chipping with 21 points and seven rebounds.
Munnings also provided great energy and communication on the defensive end. Marvin Jean-Pierre hauled in a career-high 16 rebounds in the game, eliminating second-chance points for Troy.
Sam McDaniel was another steady source of production scoring 18 points along with snatching 10 rebounds.
“Travis Munnings and Sam McDaniel both made some tough plays is the second half. “ Travis was aggressive and drove the ball to the basket, and that’s something we haven’t seen from him in a long time.
Sam did what is expected from a senior, he made some big shots in the second half and hit some key free throws down the stretch.” The Warhawks constant presure on defense lead to an impressive comeback victory.
Adding to the record-breaking night was Wesley Person. Person scored 22 points on the night becoming Troy’s all-time leader in points with 1,887 in his career.
The Warhawks also defeated South Alabama 83-74 on Saturday to spark a two game winning streak.
ULM returns home to face in state rival ULL on Saturday, Feb 3. Tip-off is scheduled for 2 p.m.