Ohio's (16-12, 10-5 Mid-American Conference) win over Akron on Wednesday was arguably its biggest of the season and encapsulated why the team is in the position it is with just three games to go in the MAC. Ohio has been incredibly dominant at home in MAC play. Since losing its first game at home in MAC play against Toledo, Ohio has won seven straight. Ohio will look to end its remarkable home campaign in 2023-24 on Friday for senior night against Bowling Green.
With a win over Bowling Green, Ohio would guarantee that it would finish any lower than a tie for fourth in the conference and at worst remain level with Central Michigan.
Bowling Green has still not clinched a berth in the MAC tournament but is on the cusp of doing so. If the season ended before the game the Falcons and Bobcats would match up in the first round of the MAC tournament.
Here is what you need to know about Bowling Green:
Game Information:
Opponent: Bowling Green
Date and time: Friday at 6 p.m.
Where to watch: CBSSN
Statistical Leaders:
Points: Marcus Hill (21.1 per game)
Rebounds:Rashaun Agee (9.7 per game)
Assists: Hill (2.5 per game)
Steals: Trey Thomas (1.4 per game)
Blocks: Jason Spurgin (1.1 per game)
Field-Goal Percentage: Agee (58.0)
3-Point Percentage Spurgin (34.7)
Free-Throw Percentage: Thomas (78.6)
First Matchup:
Ohio fell behind by 15 points early in the second half in its third MAC game of the season at Bowling Green. The Falcons' offensive attack was borderline unstoppable through 28 minutes, having scored 62 points. Ohio started to get some stops and eventually cut the Bowling Green lead to just 1 with 3:30 to go. Spurgin took over at the end of the game making back-to-back 3-point shots to put Bowling Green over the top by a final score of 83-78.
Keys to the game:
Ohio's fast-break offense was phenomenal against Akron on Tuesday with 23 fast-break points compared to just 12 from Akron. When Ohio can rebound, it can use its speed in transition to get quick baskets, Ohio should look to do that again against Bowling Green. Spurgin remains Bowling Green's best shooter from beyond the arc, Ohio will need to not leave Spurgin open even if it means giving up makable 2-point opportunities.
