It was not easy. VMI had some surprises for the Bulldogs, like a lot of 3-pointers from the corner early on in the game. There were a lot of fouls on both sides, and both sides had issues with either the calling, or not calling, of various plays.
In the end, it was the UNCA defense that saved the day. Over and over VMI was denied scoring opportunities under the rim. UNCA was able to come up with a second-half point blast and keep the lead going to the end.
The win was the second in a row Big South championship for the Bulldogs, and as win 24 of the year, sets a new school record.
From the UNCA website:
UNC Asheville Head Coach Eddie Biedenbach
“I can’t tell you how proud I am of this team over the whole season. What they have done off and on the court all season long to get them to this point. Defense was the difference in the game and our guys were solid on the defensive end. VMI did a great job of coaching their team to get them here today and they had a great run this week. That’s why we won the tournament: because of defense.”
Even the bulldog looked happy.
students swarm the court at the end
