BROOKLYN, N.Y. – The thinking was given their defensive stance and how they finished up the season on a strong note, Fordham might surprise and hang around a bit. Instead, Richmond, which struggled to defeat the Rams earlier at Rose Hill, took care of business in resounding fashion.
The 70-55 victory in the Atlantic 10 second round action at Barclays Center highlighted some of the season-long traits of Chris Mooney’s club. The offensive efficiency was a stellar 113. The Spiders shot a 52 percent eFG percentage, including .579 from two point range. Care for the ball was exhibited with a 15 percent TO rate. The difference was defense. Fordham’s was not up to par, Richmond was well above average in limiting the Rams to an 87 offensive efficiency.
Richmond spread the wealth with four in double figures. Shawn’Dre Jones and T.J. Cline shared team scoring honors with 17 points each. Fordham had the game high scorer in Joseph Chartouny with 19 points. Ryan Rhoomes added 18 for the Rams.
Richmond extended their season with the win. The Spiders are 16-15 and face Atlantic 10 co-champion Dayton in Friday’s quarterfinal.
What’s next for the Rams? A fast exit by Fordham but coach Jeff Neubauer’s team has hopes. They are 17-13 and just missed .500, finishing 8-10 in the land mine that is the Atlantic 10. The NIT appears a stretch. There are other postseason options and Fordham is well deserving of extending their campaign.
Added statistical notes: Richmond’s Terry Allen used 15 percent of his team’s possessions, posting an excellent offensive rating of 124. The 6-8 senior scored 10 points with nine boards and zero turnovers. Rhoomes used 23 percent of Fordham’s possessions and had a team-high 133 offensive rating. The senior center added 14 rebounds (eight offensive) and two blocks. One drawback in Chartouny’s day was committing six of Fordham’s 14 turnovers.
