CBI Game Recap: Santa Clara Defeats George Mason in Game One

The Santa Clara Broncos had a nice showing in the opening game of the CBI Finals with an 81 to 73 victory over George Mason. The Broncos were led by point guard Evan Roquemore, who had 20 poitns, 6 assists, and 4 rebounds. He also shot 50% from behind the arc. Roquemore’s stellar play was a great reason why the Broncos were able to function so well offensively, especially in the first half. Kevin Foster scored 28 points, which was just two points short of his tournament average prior to tonight’s game. The senior shot 46.6% from the field.

On the defensive side of things, the Broncos have to be happy with their ability to shut down George Mason guard Sherrod Wright. Wright, who is the Patriots leading scorer, failed to make a field goal the entire game. He was 0 for 6 shooting. The fact that he only got 6 shots up is impressive by itself. Santa Clara must be pleased with that. However, the Bronco’s failed to stop Johnathan Arledge and Patrick Holloway, who scored 21 and 17 points respectively. Those two players were obviously not effective enough to push George Mason over the hump in this one.

George Mason’s press did not matchup with Santa Clara the way they intended it to. Although it did generate some turnovers, the Broncos guards were able to break the press with relative ease and generate easy buckets on the other end. The Patriots should have abandoned the press early in the first half; it was evident that it wasn’t very successful most of the game.

The series now focuses its attention to Fairfax, Virginia, since George Mason will host the final games. Santa Clara could take home a CBI championship on Wednesday with a victory. The Broncos will get two chances. One more win, and they will bring home the title.