When you come out losing 28-9 and are allowing the other team to shoot 10-11 from the field, it's tough to expect to come out with a win.
Then when the second half starts with a 20-2 run to cut the lead to one, Rutgers had hope.
Then... what happened?
Villanova went to a 2-3 zone. Mack, Carter and Seagears couldn't penetrate the way they had been early in the game. Nova began making shots again and breaking Rutgers' press. Rutgers lost the rebounding battle 36-27. Though they forced 21 turnovers, they committed 25 total fouls.
Rutgers, once again, lost to a lesser team. They had a chance to improve their seeding for the upcoming Big East tournament, and once and again let it get away. As has been the story for the entire season, Rutgers' youth was apparent. They won't be going anywhere. They might win one, maybe two games on a big stage. Right now though, Scarlet Knight fans should look to next year. One that promises development, maturity, and some semblance of consistency.
Final note - what is Myles Mack thinking on the offensive side of the ball? Prior to tonight, he was shooting 34% from behind the arc. In this game, he shot 10 three pointers and only made 3 of them. This is a consistent issue. If this team is going to grow, Mack needs to learn that his best asset is not as a shooter who stops offensive flow by jacking up wild threes. He needs to facilitate more, drive to the basket and kick out to open shooters, or just spot open for the occasional open look. He's not consistent enough to take this many shots, and it drastically hurts the offense.
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