The Basics

• Score: VCU 92, Radford 74
• Records: VCU (2-0), Radford (1-1)
• Location: Stuart C. Siegel Center – Richmond, Va.
• The Short Story: Melvin Johnson's sharp shooting and the Ram's pressure defense paved the way for a 92-74 victory over the Highlanders Monday night. Johnson led all scorers with 24 points to go along with his four steals.

How it Happened:

• VCU started off with a fast pace, utilizing a full-court press and contesting shots on defense.
• As Radford tried to slow the pace down, the Rams attacked the offensive glass. However, this lead to the VCU big men getting into foul trouble.
• Radford began to work its was back by forcing bad VCU shots and running the floor, evening the score at 30-all with 5:09 remaining in the half. The Rams countered when JeQuan Lewis connected a shot from long range sparking a 13-2 run to end the half, capped by a 3-pointer from Johnson.
• Johnson came out firing in the second half, knocking down back-to-back shots from behind the arc. 
• Michael Gilmore made an immediate impact coming off the bench in the second half, protecting the rim and knocking down two three-pointers as the Rams began to pull away leading 81-54 with 4:56 remaining in regulation.
• Radford began knocking on the Ram's door again going on a 17-3 run, but the Highlanders ran out of time as VCU ran away with a 92-74 win.

Noteworthy

• Gilmore poured in 12 points, which a new career-best for the sophomore. 
• The Rams have now won 25 straight when Johnson hits three or more 3-pointers.

Video

Up Next:

• The Rams head to one of basketball's biggest stages to take on reigning champion Duke at Madison Square Garden in the 2K Classic benefitting the Wounded Warrior Project. Tip-off is Friday, November 20^th at 7:30 p.m on ESPN2.