In a back-and-forth classic between Richmond and VCU, the Spiders were unable to keep up with the Rams late in the Atlantic 10 quarterfinals.
VCU defeated the Spiders 70-67 on Friday, ending the Spiders' hopes for an NCAA tournament bid. The Rams ended the game on a 15-7 run, and Kendall Anthony was the only effective scorer for Richmond during the game's final minutes.
The loss will most likely end Anthony's career at Richmond. He went out strong though, with 26 points, six assists, four rebounds and four steals.
Late in the game, the Spiders looked conservative and made a few crucial mistakes. Trey Davis was called for a travel, wasting a fast-break opportunity. Anthony slipped and fell in the lane and turned the ball over with just minutes left. In all, the momentum was on VCU's side near the end of the game, and the Rams capitalized.
The Spiders had the statistical edge for most of the game, shooting 57 percent and crushing the Rams in the fast-break game. But Richmond was 0-5 at the foul line, and VCU made 16 of 19 foul shots.
VCU will move on to play Davidson in the conference semifinals. Richmond will travel home and, barring an NIT bid, begin its offseason.
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