Television viewers hoping for a display of flashy basketball were doubtlessly deflated, but those appreciative of lock-down defense must have marveled as the Salukis thrashed Chattanooga 63-41 in the opening round of the Anaheim Classic. The win advances the #18 Dawgs to a semifinal collision with Mississippi State on Friday.
Southern may have settled the issue in the first 20 minutes. SIU's suffocating defensive pressure left the Mocs gasping and by halftime the Dawgs were up 28-19. The second 20 minutes saw the Salukis accelerate away. Chattanooga never found a rhythm, distributed turnovers left and right, and managed to shoot just 28.2 % from the field. Two free throws in the waning seconds allowed the Mocs to top the 40 mark.
The Mocs chased Randall Falker around a good deal, but couldn't seem to hem him in. He lit them up for 21. The Dawgs' court general Bryan Mullins also reached double figures with 10, including a pair of clean steals that turned into lay-ups on the opposite end.
Tomorrow's clash with Mississippi State should be a solid challenge for both clubs. Game time is 2 p.m. Central on ESPN 2.
