By: AUSTIN PARKS
Sports Writer
Proficient offense mixed with a stout defensive performance helped the Titans win in a comeback against the Trinity International University (TIU) Trojans at home. This game was originally scheduled on Jan. 30 but was pushed back due to inclement weather.
“The win over TIU was one of the more complete games we have played all year. I thought our defense was really good for most of the game, and we found ways to grind out points on offense against a team that is one of the best defensive teams in our conference. It wasn’t always pretty, but we played really tough for 40 min,” said Head Coach Scott Cooper.
The Titans on offense shot at a high rate of 56.9 percent going 29-for-51 from the field. While the Trojans took more shots, they converted at only 41.8 percent on 67 shots. The Titans also converted at a higher percentage in both free throws and three pointers.
The key performers of the game were Dylan Allen and Miguel Mahan. Dylan led the Titans in scoring with 20 points on 5-for-8 shooting with four rebounds. Miguel Mahan scored 15 points on an efficient 7-for-9 shooting with six rebounds.
The first half started out back and forth with the largest lead being held by eight. That lead quickly diminished for the trojans. By halftime it was only a four-point game 38-34.
In the second half the Titans retook momentum. The Titans slowly outpaced the Trojans shutting them down on offense. The Titans took the lead with a layup from Mahan, with five minutes to go.
From there on the Trojans never retook the lead. The Titans were able to get to the line often in the final few minutes, gradually adding to their lead while playing shutdown defense. The Titans win in a second half comeback 78-71.
