George Mason holds off Lamar in Bracketbusters game

George Mason had another game yesterday where they let a big lead shrink in the second half and somehow found a way to keep things interesting late in the game. Mason was firing on all cylinders as they built up a 17 point lead in a game that started out with hot shooting and no defense on either side.  VCU buzzer-beater hero Sherrod Wright came off the bench and sank a three-pointer on his first attempt, picking up right where he left off.  However the turnovers and poor shot selection towards the end of the game once again nearly doomed the Patriots.  Sure this game didn't have the feel of a VCU or ODU but it would have been nice to see them have a killer instinct and put a team away early.  But the Patriots come away with the win again and are currently on a five game winning streak and staying on a roll at this point in the season is very reassuring.  

Mason shot the ball very well despite surrendering their big lead.  They shot 68% in the first half and 57% overall for the game.  It seems as though the Patriots sometimes just get too comfortable when they jump out to big lead and start to coast.  Maybe they just like to keep things interesting for all us fans.  We did however see a better three-point shooting day from Mason then we are accustomed too. Wright and Cornelius combined for five three-pointers, something I hope we can more of before this season is over.  

The three seniors were honored and each of them had a good game.  Ryan Pearson picked up another double-double and had a great day on the boards, while Mike Morrison get things going early in the paint.  Andre Cornelius had the most impressive game we have seen from him in awhile but only played 14 minutes.  Sherrod Wright has obviously earned the playing time but I still think Cornelius is going to have to be a big factor if this team wants to be playing meaningful basketball after March 5.  

[Photos by John Powell]

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