The Marquette men’s basketball team secured a hard-fought 70-62 victory over Central Michigan on November 11, 2024. With star players Tyler Kolek and Oso Ighodaro now in the NBA, the Golden Eagles are adapting to a new style of play. Can they continue to win even when the game gets tough?
- Last season's offense was aesthetically pleasing.
- Current team learning to win ugly.
- Marquette sets deflections program record.
- Freshman Royce Parham shows offensive potential.
- Kam Jones is key to offensive strategy.
- MU struggles with shooting consistency.
Marquette Golden Eagles Show Grit in 70-62 Win Over Central Michigan
In a game that was anything but pretty, the Marquette Golden Eagles demonstrated their ability to win ugly. How can a team thrive despite offensive challenges? With a strong defense and key contributions from players like Stevie Mitchell, Marquette is learning to adapt and push through adversity.
Defensive Mastery Leads Marquette to Victory
Marquette’s defense was a standout feature in their win against Central Michigan. The Golden Eagles set a new program record with 66 deflections, showcasing their aggressive playing style. This relentless defense fueled a remarkable 21-0 run in the first half, allowing them to control the game.
- Stevie Mitchell led the scoring with 16 points.
- Freshman Royce Parham made a significant impact off the bench.
- Marquette’s defense was key, with a record number of deflections.
- The team is focusing on winning even when the offense struggles.
Stevie Mitchell’s Leadership Shines Through
Stevie Mitchell emerged as a leader for the Golden Eagles, scoring 16 points and guiding his teammates through challenging moments. He emphasized the importance of winning ugly, stating, “We know that every game, shots don’t go in, we can still win.” This mindset is crucial for a team adjusting to new dynamics.
Freshman Forward Royce Parham Sparks the Offense
Royce Parham made a notable impact in his limited playing time. Coming off the bench, he scored nine points, including a crucial three-pointer that ignited a scoring run. Coach Shaka Smart praised his offensive potential, indicating that Parham is already one of the team’s best offensive players.
Offensive Struggles and Future Improvements
Despite the win, Marquette’s offense faced challenges, particularly in shooting. Key players struggled to find their rhythm, with some missing open shots. Coach Smart acknowledged the need for improvement, stating, “We’re still figuring out offensively who the playmakers are on our team beyond Kam.” This ongoing development will be vital as the season progresses.
As the Marquette Golden Eagles continue their season, their ability to win ugly may be the key to their success. With a focus on resilience and teamwork, they are poised to face any challenge head-on.
