Pepperdine Game Recap: Waves come back from 10 down to beat UC Irvine
By James Pigott
Jan 3, 2013; Malibu, CA, USA; Gonzaga Bulldogs forward Elias Harris (20) and Pepperdine Waves forward Jett Raines (45) go after a loose ball during the game at Firestone Fieldhouse. Mandatory Credit: Richard Mackson-USA TODAY Sports
Game Summary
Despite trailing by 10 points at half time, the Pepperdine Waves staged a furious second half comeback led by guards Jeremy Major and Malcolm Brooks to defeat the UC Irvine Anteaters 75-69. Major and Brooks combined for 25 of Pepperdine’s 45 second half points, while it was Stacy Davis’ 9 points in the first 10 minutes of the game that prevented the Anteaters from running away with the game. Pepperdine survived a rare off-game from Brendan Lane, who finished with only 4 points on 2/6 shooting. Nonetheless, because the Waves outrebounded UC Irvine and its large frontcourt, they were able to get the victory. Last game I said the Waves needed to shoot better from beyond the arc, and they did, going 7/18 from three point range.
UC Irvine was led by balanced scoring from all five starters. Chris McNealy scored 16 points, Alex Young and Luke Davis each scored 12, Mamadou Ndiaye scored 10, and Will Davis II scored 9. However, Pepperdine won the bench points category 16-10, the exact margin of the final score of the game.
Stat of the Night
Jett Raines scored 7 points and pulled down 6 rebounds (5 offensive) in just 13 minutes of actions. His energy off the bench was much needed, especially in the second half when the Waves went on a run. It is good to see Raines getting back into the flow of the game, and I anticipate that he will take Malte Kramer’s starting spot very shortly if he continues to play like this.
Moving Forward
This was an excellent comeback win for the Waves who avoided a 3 game losing streak. Jeremy Major and Malcolm Brooks have proven to be a great backcourt combination. Stacy Davis got back on track after his foul plagued effort Wednesday night. If Brendan Lane gets going, the Waves now have four potent offensive scorers and they will be a tough test for anyone come league play.