Inconsistency reared its ugly head throughout Ohio’s 2010-11 campaign, and the new season began with more of the same.
After taking a 40-21 lead against Tennessee-Martin into halftime, the Bobcats watched their lead almost evaporate in the second half but were able to hold on for the 74-65 win.
“It was obviously a tale of two different halves,” Ohio coach John Groce said. “In the first half, we imposed our will and we were the tougher team. In the second half, they were and they did not quit playing.”
Ohio dominated the first half and the opening minutes of the second, eventually extending its lead to 60-31 with 14:30 remaining. But from that point on, the Skyhawks outscored the Bobcats 34-14.
While Ohio’s scoring declined in the second half, so did its defense, which allowed 44 second-half points, more than double what it gave up in the opening half.
“We got a little complacent,” said point guard D.J. Cooper, who recorded a double-double. “We weren’t playing like we were in the first and weren’t getting consecutive stops.”
The Bobcats also had a drop-off in rebounds, second-chance points, points off turnovers, and assists during the second half.
After turning the ball over only twice in the first half, Ohio had eight giveaways in the second half.
Despite the poor finish, there were some bright spots in the win, one of which was the play of transfer guard Walter Offutt.
The junior led all scorers with 17 points and added three steals in 28 minutes on the floor. It was Offutt’s first collegiate game in two years. He last played for Ohio State early during the 2009-10 season.
Nine Ohio players recorded at least two points for the Bobcats. Ohio’s bench contributed 29 points, including 16 from junior Reggie Keely.
Groce said he was pleased with the energy brought to the team by freshmen Stevie Taylor and TyQuane Goard, who both scored in their collegiate debuts.
After the win, Groce said he was already looking forward to Tuesday night’s contest against Lamar.
“I’m disappointed we didn’t play a 40-minute game, but I’m fully aware it’s Nov. 13 and we get another opportunity Tuesday night,” he said.
ro137807@ohiou.edu
