It seemed like another close match for the No. 1 men’s basketball team, but Adreian Payne the Spartans finished the game blowing the doors off of Virginia Tech, 96-77.
Payne reminded Spartan fans why they should be happy he came back for his senior season, as he scored a career-high 29 points while grabbing 10 rebounds. After the game Payne spoke with TNT sideline reporter Craig Sager about his decision to return.
“I’m glad I came back, made a great decision and I’ve been all-in from the beginning,” the senior forward said.
Sophomore guard Gary Harris, junior forward Branden Dawson and senior guard Keith Appling all scored in double digits as well. Dawson tied the team with 10 rebounds.
The game was close-knit with the Hokies shooting hot from 3-point range, but the Spartans closed the half on a 15-2 run to give them a 46-33 lead.
The team didn’t let off the gas pedal for the remainder of the night, as they extended their lead well into the twenties. The blowout allowed seldom-used players to get some time, including redshirt forward Kenny Kaminski, who used the time to score his first basketball as a Spartan on a 3-pointer.
However, there were negatives to be taken out of the game. The Spartans’ struggles on the boards continued as they were out-rebounded 41-33. Also, Harris may have scored 19 points, but he started off ice-cold from the field, including missing his first 10 3-point shots.
The Spartans will look to carry their momentum in the Coaches vs. Cancer finals tomorrow night at 9:30 p.m. against Oklahoma, who squeaked by Seton Hall in the semifinals, 85-86.
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