Albertus Magnus wins GNAC opener

The Falcons won their tourney opener, 100-82, over Rivier at Messer Arena.

Coach Mitch Oliver talks about the victory:



More comments from Mitch Oliver:

On the reasons behind the 8-game winning streak:
"We're definitely rebounding better. When we defend and rebound it ignites our break and no one can stop us when we're running.
"When we're walking the ball up the court we're easier to guard. Our goal is to be fast in the fullcourt and fast in the halfcourt and because we're rebounding better we've been playing fast."


On the bench play:
"I've always said that Arshard Jackson is one of our most talented guards. He can play off the dribble. He doesn't need to go between his legs 10 times to go by someone. He has the athletic ability to just go and create his own shot.
"All these kids thrive in this system. Mike Massey and Chris Cagle. They're New Haven kids. They want to play in this system. They present matchup problems. Massey can go outside. They're tough and I love having those types of kids."

Inside the box score:
Rivier shot 63 percent from the field in the second half. While the Falcons never were threatened both Oliver and Falcons' forward Rays Askew said they'll have to play much better defensively next round.

Looking ahead:
The Falcons play at Johnson & Wales on Thursday night at 7 p.m. J&W features Lamonte Thomas, the leading scorer in all of Division III. Thomas averages 30 points a game.
The two teams split a pair of games this season with both winning on the road.