Russell Scores 26 Off Bench, URI Beats Davidson 69-58
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Russell Scores 26 Off Bench, URI Beats Davidson 69-58
The change in the starting lineup comes after URI had dropped their previous two games to Richmond and Brown University.
"I thought he was the difference tonight. It’s not just the points. It’s how he accepted his role coming off the bench, how he led while he was on the bench and then, obviously, his production on the floor," said URI head coach David Cox after the game.
GET THE LATEST BREAKING NEWS HERE -- SIGN UP FOR GOLOCAL FREE DAILY EBLASTPrior to Wednesday, Russell started all 13 games for URI this season, and the previous 45 games.
In his last four games, Russell has averaged 13 points and seven assists per game.
"Whatever coach (David Cox) asks me to do, I’m going to do it. Whatever my role is going forward, that’s what it will be. I’m just trying to win. I just want to win championships," said Russell after the game.
Jacob Toppin started in place of Russell, it was his first career start.
The win improves Rhode Island to 9-5 overall and 1-1 in the A-10.
Davidson falls to 6-8 overall, and 0-2 in the A-10.
URI Holds Off Davidson
After leading by four at the half, the Rams built up an 11 point lead, 59-48, on a Cyril Langevine layup and-one with 4:47 to play in the game.
However, Davidson would rally and cut URI’s lead to four, 62-58, on a layup by Kellan Grady with 50 seconds left to go.
Those would be the last points that Davidson would score.
The Rams would get two free throws from Tyrese Martin and Jeff Dowtin to take a 66-58 lead with 40 seconds left.
After Davidson failed to score on their ensuing possession, Russell knocked down a three as time expired to put URI up 69-58.
They would go on to win by that score.
Russell Gives URI Halftime Lead
After trailing 16-12 midway through the first half, URI responded by grabbing a 25-20 lead on a layup by Russell with 5:06 to play in the opening frame.
The Rams would maintain a five-point lead, 29-24, on a jumper by Jermaine Harris with 2:22 to play in the half.
Davidson would cut the Rams lead to one, 31-30, with 38 seconds left in the half.
On URI’s ensuing possession, Russell knocked down a step-back three with a hand in his face to give Rhode Island a 34-30 lead.
They would take that lead into the half.
Russell had nine points on 4-of-7 shooting off the bench in the first half.
Starting Lineup Change
After losing two straight games, the Rams made a change in their starting lineup
Rhode Island removed star guard Fatts Russell and replaced him with Jacob Toppin.
Russell started all 13 games for URI this season, and the previous 45 games.
In his last four games, Russell has averaged 13 points and seven assists per game.
For Toppin, it marked his first career start.
Next Up
URI returns to action on Saturday, January 11 when they visit Virginia Commonwealth University.
Game time is set for 2 p.m.