Owl's still perfect at Home

Florida Atlantic defeated University Missouri-Kansas City tonight in blow-out fashion by a final score of 77-59.  This was not the same UMKC that recently upset Wichita State, and you can credit that to the Owl's defense.  Forced to drive and find other ways to score besides the three, FAU held the Roo's attack in check.

Cold shooting by both teams during the first period with a score of 12-4 at the 10:17 mark of the first half.  That would soon change, and in a big way.  The Owls hit stride and took a comfortable 32-19 lead at the half, behind strong shooting from Shavar Richardson (18 points) and Xavier "X-Man" Perkins (17 points).

During warm-ups before the start of the second, UMKC did nothing but shoot three pointers.  Correct strategy one would surmise based on first half performance (2-11).  It would pay off initially, as they came out hot to start the second, and went to work connecting on thier first two attempts to reduce the lead to seven.  Paul Graham responded with a 3 for 3 stint of jumpers, but UMKC nipped at the lead here and there with an exchange of baskets that ressembled a boxing match.  Big question in fan's minds at this point:  Could the Owls hold on? 

Enter Shavar Richardson

Voila:  Lead extended to 19.  This kid continues to amaze with his shooting ability.

Back to the Story

Have the Owls found a rythym and rotation?  In deed they did Saturday night.  This is not the same team from a year ago; or even two weeks ago for that matter.  FAU out rebounded the Roos by 20 (51-31) and held them to 33.9% from the floor on the night.

Brett Royster had a season high 4 blocks, and a nasty put back dunk at the 5:39 mark - all of which were spectacular.

Alex Tucker, who was a game time surprise addition, logged his first minutes (14) as an Owl.  His insertion into the rotation proved well rounded with 2 points, 3 rebounds, 1 block, 1 steal, and 1 assist.  How's that for a debut coach?  "He see's things that no one else on the team sees...and he is an incredible athlete too", said Jarvis.  He was impressive, even if the numbers are not stellar at this point in time.  The block he had was against an opponent who was 6-7 and while the shot was already well in the air.  This just in:  Tucker is listed at a generous 5 feet 11 inches.  He looks to be special. 

Anybody Home?

It's the week before Thanksgiving and you could tell by the crowd that showed up to take in the game tonight.  Maybe folks were still lamenting the football team's loss to ASU in disheartening fashion at the hands of dropped pass after dropped pass? The box score reported 873 on tap.  But not so sure that was accurate.  However, if this kind of play continues, look for those numbers to increase considerably.  It should be eveident by now that Coach Jarvis has put a good brand of hoops together for students and community fans alike.  The season is shaping up to be an exciting one.

Paul Graham (16 points, 2 assists) entered the FAU record books after connecting on a long three from the sideline by way of an assist from Richardson.  This places Graham as the 6th all time scorer for the Owls with almost a whole season to go.  "It's always great to reach a record and a milestone", said Graham afterwards.  Nice job.

Get ready for Davidson

Stephen Curry.  What can one say?  one of the best, if not the best pure shooter in the NCAA at present.  Question:  Biggest challenge of the season so far coach?  "Biggest challenge is always the next game, so yes."  Who will get the defensive assignment on Curry?  "Honestly dont know yet...I might put Royster on him...I'm serious...I don't know."

Whoever gets the call, the Owls need to get ready.  They hit the road for what is, by all means, the best team they have faced thus far in Davidson.