VCU Stifles California (PA) In Exhibition Action

On Friday, November 3rd, the VCU Rams took the court to battle NCAA Division II opponent California (PA). Although the Rams were a huge favorite to coast through the Vulcans of California, the Vulcans stayed within reach as they trailed at half time 31-44. Nonetheless, the second half told a different story. As assumed, VCU took control of the game and outscored the Vulcans 52-29 and ended up victorious by a count of 96-60.

VCU's success was shown in their efficient rebounding and ability to score points in the paint. VCU out rebounded California 60-37 and scored 54 points in the paint compared to California's 22. The bench also proved to be a big factor for VCU. The Rams scored 45 bench points while the Vulcans scored just 24. As well, one can't write an article on VCU and forget to mention VCU's swarming defense. The Rams had 13 steals and 8 blocks compared to the Vulcan's five steals and two blocks. As usual with the Rams, defense factored into the ending result of the game.

The first star of the game goes to 6-4, Senior guard Melvin Johnson who outmatched California defenders as he led all scorers with 24 points. Johnson, went 7-17 from the field and made four 3-point shots from beyond the arc. Fellow Senior guard Korey Billbury, a transfer from Oral Roberts University, also deserves a star. The 6-4 guard achieved a double-double scoring 10 points and grabbing 11 rebounds.

A victory is a victory and I am sure the Rams are happy to get a win heading into their first official game of the season against Prairie View A&M of the SWAC conference. The meeting will be held at 7:00 PM on Friday, November 13th in Richmond, Virginia at the Verizon Wireless Arena at the Siegel Center. Look for the Rams to run through A&M and build on their mini winning streak as their date with Duke University nears underneath the broadway lights of Madison Square Garden.

VCU Schedule
VCU vs. California (PA) Box Score