10:06am: Talkline with Hoppy Kercheval

Despite slow start, University downs Kennedy Catholic 67-62

McKEES ROCKS, PA – University overcame a mistake filled first quarter to defeat Kennedy Catholic 67-62 Saturday at the Pittsburgh Winter Jam Fest.

University, rated No. 1 in the Metronews Power Index, struggled at the start, plagued by turnovers and a lack of offense, the Hawks trailed 17-9 after the first quarter. K.J. McClurg kept University in the game posting 11 of his team-high 21 points in the first half, including three three-pointers.

“We regrouped and saw the ball go through the hole a few times and McClurg was huge. He really carried us in the first half,” said Head Coach Joe Schmidle.

The Hawks got the offense going in the second quarter, outscoring Kennedy 17-7, taking a 26-21 lead into halftime.

After McClurg got hot in the first half, Kennedy focused on preventing McClurg from getting open looks at the basket. That allowed Kaden Methany and Mike Maumbe to get involved in the action, finding lanes to the basket. Methany, who struggled to find his shot in the first half, ended the game with 19 points.

Maumbe contributed 9 points but his defense and rebounding were keys in the University victory.

The Hawks didn’t have an answer for Kennedy’s Ike Herster, who hit four three-pointers in the second half and finished with the game-high 33 points. Herster singlehandedly kept Kennedy within striking distance of the Hawks until University switched its defense and brought Maumbe out to defend Kennedy’s best shooter.

“They never made a shot all night and we went to a 2-3 zone and he started knocking down NBA three’s. We went back to man-to-man and I put Mike out on him for a little more length to try and bother his shot a little bit. Mike did a great job on him,” Schmidle explained.

Maumbe was key on the boards as well, finishing the game hauling in 13 rebounds.

Next up, University returns home to play host to rival Morgantown in their second meeting of the season. The Hawks won the first matchup 49-46 on the Mohigans home court.

“They’re good. They dismantled Parkersburg South and looked really good in the second half. They’re playing well and I’m sure will be out for a little revenge.”

Morgantown is coming off 59-33 win over Parkersburg South. Tip-off is set for 7:30 Wednesday night at University.





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