Pacific Game Preview: Tigers Cap Off Global Sports Challenge Versus UND
By Josh Horton
Nov 19, 2013; Madison, WI, USA; North Dakota guard Troy Huff (left) attempts to move ball against Wisconsin Badgers guard Bronson Koenig (24) at the Kohl Center. Wisconsin defeated North Dakota 103-85. Mandatory Credit: Mary Langenfeld-USA TODAY Sports
If you take away Pacific’s second half against Oregon, they have played fantastic in the Global Sports Challenge. In the third and final game in Eugene, the Tigers will take on North Dakota with hopes of coming out of the round-robin style tournament with a winning record.
North Dakota has struggled thus far in the tournament. UND has lost both of its games in the Global Sports Challenge by a combined 42 points, and is only averaging 59.5 points.
The Opponent
AP Poll: NR
Coaches Poll: NR
RPI: 134
KenPom: 210
Besides a matchup with Minnesota Morris, North Dakota has only played quality teams thus far in the non-conference slate. UND has 3 losses against no. 12 Wisconsin, no. 14 Oregon and Cal Poly, none of which are bad teams.
UND has a prolific scorer in Troy Huff. Huff is averaging 22.6 points and 8.0 rebounds, both of which are leading North Dakota. Despite being 6-5, Huff can score in a multitude of different ways, including down on the low block.
Key to the Game
Slow Down Huff
Although it is unclear whether Trevin Harris or Sama Taku will matchup with Huff, this will be a point of emphasis for the Tigers. If Huff is shut down, this game looks to be a victory for the Tigers.