George Mason's high-powered offense was on full display at Gentile Arena, as the Patriots secured an 82-74 victory over Loyola Chicago. Led by Riley Allenspach's 23 points and 5 rebounds, George Mason demonstrated its ability to maintain a consistent scoring pace throughout the game. The Patriots trailed by 6 points at halftime, with Loyola Chicago taking a 47-41 lead into the break, but they adjusted their strategy and outscored the Ramblers 41-27 in the second half.
Nic Anderson was the standout performer for Loyola Chicago, finishing with 17 points and 7 rebounds. He received support from Kymany Houinsou, who contributed 15 points and 6 assists, and Miles Rubin, who added 14 points and 6 assists. Despite these individual efforts, the Ramblers were unable to keep pace with George Mason's balanced attack. Jahari Long and Masai Troutman also played crucial roles for the Patriots, scoring 17 and 14 points, respectively.
The game unfolded with both teams showcasing their offensive capabilities in the first half. Loyola Chicago's 47 points in the opening period were a reflection of their ability to move the ball effectively and create scoring opportunities. However, George Mason's defensive adjustments in the second half limited the Ramblers' scoring chances, allowing the Patriots to seize control of the game.
This non-conference matchup had real consequences for both teams' tournament resumes. For George Mason, the win marked another Quadrant 4 victory, which, although not particularly impactful, helped maintain their current net ranking of 70. On the other hand, Loyola Chicago, currently ranked 317, secured a Quadrant 2 game, which could potentially boost their resume if they can build on this performance.
The absence of a pre-game prediction meant that the outcome was truly unpredictable, but George Mason's superior offense and defensive adjustments ultimately was the deciding factors. As the season progresses, the Patriots want to continue their strong form and solidify their position in the tournament picture.
The outcome of this game reinforces George Mason's position as a strong contender, with their 18-2 record and consistent performances making a compelling case for a tournament berth. While Loyola Chicago's 5-17 record and 317 net ranking indicate a more challenging road ahead, their ability to compete with a high-caliber team like George Mason suggests that they may still have opportunities to improve their resume and make a late push for tournament consideration. For now, George Mason's victory serves as a reflection of their strength and depth, and they want to carry this momentum forward as they pursue a successful season.