Game Recap: Davidson vs Duquesne via James Blackburn
Davidson faced off with visiting Duquesne Dukes in the first A-10 conference game of the season for both teams. This was just Duquesne 2nd away game of the season, which is incredible. Both teams entered evenly matched at 9-4 and were looking for a win with each school coming off a loss in their previous outing. Even though the students were on break, the game was sold out and the crowd was a sea of red.
Davidson struggled in the 1st half with uncharacteristic turnovers and settled for the 3 too much. The game was back and forth in the first half with neither team really able to secure a big lead or momentum, as there was 12 lead changes and 7 ties. Davidson stayed in the game with FT’s as they entered the bonus with more than 10 minutes left in the 1st half. Duquesne was able to use its athleticism and sound offense to its advantage. Sophomore guard Kellan Grady hit a big 3 just before half to give Davidson the 41-39 lead at the break.
The 2nd half was more of the same with both teams running terrific half court offense, moving the ball, and playing balanced offensive basketball. Davidson struggled with turnovers but went on a timely run late with some big shots and hit some FT’s late to secure the 65-61 win.
Some standout players for both teams were.
Duquesne
Eric Williams, SO, G, 6-6
Long active wing who can shoot the 3. Has a high motor. Good athlete.
Mike Hughes, SO, C, 6-8
Big guy with a strong frame. Willing to bang in the post. Good offensive rebounder. Plays hard. Had several big blocks.
Sincere Carry, FR, G, 6-1
Shifty guard who plays more like a senior, poised, terrific passer. Plays the passing lanes, terrific on-ball defender who really pressures the ball. Makes great reads out of the PnR. Can create his own shot. Good pull up shooter. Needs to improve 3 pt shooting. So good at attacking rim downhill. Controls tempo and was terrific today. Kid is tough!
Frankie Hughes, SO, F, 6-5
May be team’s best shooter- has a nice stroke- quick release. Good length.
Davidson
Kellan Grady, SO, G, 6-5
Good size for the PG position. Was really aggressive today in his first game back from injury. Improved 3 pt shooter but settles for it too much. Hit several huge 3’s in this one though.
Luka Brajkovic, F, FR, 6-10
One of the best back to the basket scorers I have seen all year. Thin but has incredible footwork on the low block. Fundamental. Keeps the ball high. Has an array of moves with back to the basket. Is patient in the post. Does a nice job of pass faking out of the post.