WVU Men's Basketball: Mountaineers Improve To 7-0 In 86-57 Win Over College Of Charleston

A close game in the first half quickly turned into a rout as the Mountaineer defense wore down another opponent, giving #21 West Virginia (7-0) an 86-57 victory over College of Charleston (2-4) on Saturday at the WVU Coliseum.

College of Charleston had several wide open looks in the first half, which led to a 52.4% first half field goal percentage and only a 38-29 deficit. Those open looks decreased significantly in the second half, with the constant defensive pressure by West Virginia becoming more than the Cougars could handle. The Mountaineers outrebounded the Cougars 41-25 and forced 18 turnovers.

It seems like at least once a game we're seeing a play that shows just how much of an athletic freak Jonathan Holton is. Here was tonight's:

Having a big man that can go the length of the floor like that is a heck of an asset.

West Virginia was led in scoring by Jonathan Holton with 21 points, 10 rebounds, 4 assists, and 3 steals. Jaysean Paige scored 11 of the team's first 15 of the game and finished with 15 on 5-8 shooting. Juwan Staten was satisfied to run the offense and get everyone involved, but added 10 points, 3 assists, and 3 rebounds. Nathan Adrian and Daxter Miles added 9 each. Devin Williams had 6 points and 9 rebounds.

Evan Bailey and Donovan Gilmore each added 13 for College of Charleston.

Some notes:

• You may have noticed the "RMP" patch that's now on the jerseys of the Mountaineers. Those are the initials for Elijah Macon's mother, Renai Payne, who passed away on November 16th. A very nice tribute by the team to show support for Elijah. According to the TV broadcast, the patch will be worn all season.
• Brandon Watkins suited up for the first time since being out several games with an undisclosed illness. He didn't see any action (probably not in game shape) but it's nice to know that he's back. Having that depth in the frontcourt is huge. Rumor is BillyDee Williams will be returning for the LSU game.
• It was good to see Nathan Adrian knock down a couple of threes. His outside shooting will be important against better competition.
• He's no Gregg Popovich, but Bob Huggins' halftime interviews have been extremely entertaining so far this season. Becoming an expert with the sarcasm.

The Mountaineers get a bit of a break now, not playing again until next Thursday against LSU. The Tigers (4-2) have already played one Big 12 team, defeating Texas Tech in overtime on November 18. The game tips at 7:00 PM and will be televised by ESPN2.