:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/53544857/usa_today_9918511.0.jpg)
The Colorado State Rams (21-10, MW 13-5) came into this game on a hot streak, winners of 7 straight and 10 of their past 11. With a chance to win their first regular season championship since 1989-90; A decent first half faded away to a bad second half and cost the Rams the victory, with the Nevada Wolf Pack (25-6, MW 14-4) winning 85-72.
The Rams started off hot getting out to a 10 point lead with 4 minutes left in the first half. Gian Clavell and Prentiss Nixon got off to hot starts. Gian Clavell finished the first half with 18 points and Nixon finished with 10. Final totals had Clavell finish with 33 points and Nixon with 12.
Once the momentum started going Nevada’s way, the Rams seemed to fall apart. They stopped playing their game and started playing Nevada’s. Throwing away easy passes, taking quick shots, taking forced shots, etc. The Rams got away from who they are.
Nevada was able to contain Emmanuel Omogbo. Omogbo was forced to sit for most of the first half with 2 fouls and never looked comfortable in the game. Forcing the Rams to look for the big shot instead of playing their game, the Wolf Pack ran the Rams out of the gym in the second half.
Nevada finished with 3 double-doubles. Cameron Oliver and Jordan Caroline both had point-rebound double-doubles. Oliver finished with 29 points and 17 rebounds, Caroline with 18 points and 15 rebounds. Marcus Marshall finished with 18 points and 10 assists.
Nevada played great defense on their way to their first conference win since 2011-12. Forcing the Rams out of their comfort zone and increasing the pace. Nevada forced the Rams to play their game.
Both teams now move on to the MW championship tournament. Nevada is the 1 seed, facing the winner of Utah State and San Jose State. CSU is the 2 seed, facing the winner of Wyoming and Air Force.
Play-in games are on Wednesday, streamed on the MW Network. Quarterfinals and Semifinals will be on CBSSports. Final will be on CBS, Saturday March 11th, at 3pm PT. All games will be played at the Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas.