TUSCALOOSA, Ala.- From the 11 minutes mark until the final minute of the game, Troy missed on 11 consecutive three-point shots while Alabama slowly dug a hole too deep for the Trojans to climb out of as Troy fell 84-72 Friday night at Coleman Coliseum.
The Trojans opened the game playing it's traditional style of basketball. Playing man-to-man defense, shooting three-pointers, and running the floor, Troy kept Alabama on its heels until late in the game.
“I hate to say it, but we are a little disappointed that we didn't get the win,” head coach Don Maestri said. “Our guys played hard and fast but we just didn't get it done.”
Justin Jonus returned to the place where he started his college career and led the Trojans in the first half in scoring with 10 points and finished the game with 15 points. O'Darien Bassett led the Trojans with 18 points. Trayce Macon added 13.
The Trojans press defense forced 12 first half turnovers while turning the ball over 10 times. Alabama turned the ball over 25 times in the game.
“Anytime you can make a team like Alabama turn the ball over 25 times, you have a chance to win,” Maestri said. “We missed too many wide open shots tonight. If we make those shots, we have a chance in the game.
Troy shot 37 percent from the floor in the first half and 32 percent for the game.
The biggest difference in the game was the Trojans inability to rebound. Alabama snatched down 61 rebounds compared to Troy's 35. The Tide also out scored the Trojans 56-18 in the paint.
Troy was 11-of-43 from beyond the arc while Alabama was 4-of-20.
Alabama came out of the locker room and went on an 8-2 run to begin the second half.
The Trojans closed the game to 68-67 but went ice cold after that. Troy scored a basket at the 12:01 mark and didn't score another point until a free throw with 2:11 left in the game.
During the Trojans dry spell, Alabama went on a 16-5 run, pushing it's lead to 14 points at 84-70.
Troy had a chance late in the game after cutting the lead to nine points, but after a missed three-pointer and two turnovers, Alabama was able to hold the ball and run out the clock.
The Trojans return to action Wednesday night against Paul Quinn College at Trojan Arena. Tip-off is set for 7 p.m.
