Conference Tournament Semifinals
(1) St. Louis 84-81 vs. (3) Xavier
Xavier hangs in with St. Louis throughout the game but cannot advance to the championship. Despite taking 34 more shots from the floor than St. Louis, Xavier is only able to connect on 5 more, shooting 36% compared to St. Louis' 52%. St. Louis gave away the ball 21 times, 10 more than Xavier, and also allowed 23 offensive rebounds. However, 21 points from Michael Back and 7-10 shooting from Jeremy Jones, allowed the Billikens to escape with the victory. St. Louis, seeking their first conference championship in 22 years, will advance to face Dayton. Meanwhile, Xavier finishes their season with a 15-14 record, ending with a record above .500 after 3 straight seasons below.
(2) Dayton 71-61 vs. (1) Rhode Island
Dayton shuts down Rhode Island's offense late to seal the victory. Rhode Island fails to record a field goal for 6 minutes late in the game, scoring only 5 points in the final 6 minutes. Dayton brought a 12 point lead into halftime, holding Rhode Island to 32%FG, and controlled the rest of the game. Richard Pines led the game with 15 points and 12 rebounds, but it wasn't enough to beat Dayton, whose starters combined for 18-35 shooting. Rhode Island most likely will play in the Postseason Invitational, while Dayton will fight St. Louis for the Conference Title.
Player of the Day
Michael Back (St. Louis) 21pts, 4ast, 5-9FG