Thursday, November 29, 2007

Texas Tech delivers first loss to TCU, 71-58; De Bem plays well in win


From the Texas Tech Website


The Red Raiders (5-2) delivered the Horned Frogs (4-1) their first loss of the season Wednesday night at the United Spirit Arena. Down by as many as 13 points in the 2nd half, Texas Tech fought their way back and won 71-58. The Red Raiders (5-2) delivered the Horned Frogs (4-1) their first loss of the season Wednesday night at the United Spirit Arena.

Tech was led by senior Martin Zeno who scored 26 points and 10 rebounds. According to Coach Knight, “[Martin] played his best game [of the season] in terms of what he gave to the team.” Zeno commented, “I felt like tonight was my time to shine.”

Zeno was followed by hot three-point shooter Alan Voskuil with 16 points who shot 57% (4 of 7) from behind the arc. Charlie Burgess also scored in double figures, contributing 13 points on 4 of 7 field goals.

In a topsy-turvy, nail-biting game, the Red Raiders went on a 32-10 run over a 12 minute span to overcome a 13 point deficit in the 2nd half, giving Coach Knight his 895th victory.

Capitalizing on multiple Tech turnovers in the first half, TCU held a 35-29 point lead at halftime and started the 2nd half very strong, jumping out to a 48-35 advantage. Despite the Horned Frogs early success in the second half, Coach Knight felt that “our guys did a pretty good job of hanging in there.”

Free throws played a key role in Tech’s come from behind victory, with the Red Raiders making 24 of 32 from the line.

Junior Ricardo De Bem played significant minutes in the 2nd half and had a key bucket, a pair of free throws, and strong inside presence, finishing the game with 4 points. Freshman Mike Singletary played with energy down the stretch coming up with key steals, blocking shots and adding 3 points.

After the game, Martin Zeno explained the pivotal role these two newcomers played in the game. “Singletary and Rico got us going… they motivated us.”

Sophomore Trevor Cook played well in the first half and had the opportunity to start the 2nd half, tallying up 6 points.

Player of the Game – Martin Zeno. He penetrated and attacked the basket when it was needed the most. Zeno’s 26 points is his season high.

The Red Raiders take on the Centenary Gents (4-3) on Saturday at 5:30PM in Shreveport, Louisiana. The game will be broadcast on the Texas Tech Television Network.

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