Men’s Basketball defeated UNI in atmospheric home game

The University of Richmond beat the University of Northern Iowa 68-55 in a crowded home game at the Robins Center on Nov. 11. 

Before the game, students and members of the Richmond community gathered to watch the unveiling of the 2022 Atlantic 10 Championship banner in the Robins Center. UR beat Davidson last year to win the A-10 Championship and secure their place in the March Madness NCAA tournament. 

Former players like Grant Golden, ‘22, and Jacob Gilyard, ‘22, had messages for the fans, thanking them for their support. Gilyard was present at the ceremony and proceeded to watch the game afterward. Golden sent in a video that was displayed on the big screen in the Robins Center. Both players thanked fans for supporting them during the season and were happy with what they had achieved. 

The first half was neck and neck as the Spiders and the Panthers took turns leading the game. UR took the early lead, but was quickly met with a response from UNI to tie the score. The Panthers claimed the lead and held it for nearly four minutes until UR tied the score again. 

The game was a defensive battle with both teams having very low field goal percentages. UNI made 38.5% of its field goals and 18.2% of its three-point field goals while UR successfully scored 36.7% of its field goals and 14.3% of its three-point field goals. The first half ended with the Spiders leading 32-29. 

UR found its stride in the second half and pulled away from the Panthers. The Spiders stayed in control for the rest of the game with their biggest lead being 16 points. Their field goal accuracy improved by 19.2% and their three-point shots increased by 31.9%. 

Redshirt first-year guard Jason Nelson and sophomore guard Jason Roche had impressive offensive games, with Nelson making nine of his 15 shots and Roche scoring five of his eight. Roche made four three-pointers out of six attempts. 

Head coach Chris Mooney applauded Nelson for his performance in the game. 

“Jason Nelson has a very good feel for the game,” Mooney said. “His awareness puts a lot of pressure on the opposition.”

Nelson continues his impressive start to the season, scoring a total of 34 points so far. 

Mooney also appreciated his team’s passing and movement during the game. 

“Moving and passing the ball is going to be a real strength of this team,” Mooney said. 

UR is now 2-0 on the season and travels to play the College of Charleston on Monday, Nov. 14. The game will take place at 7 p.m. at TD Arena in Charleston, South Carolina.

Contact sports writer Ryan Stacy at ryan.stacy@richmond.edu.