The Atlantic Region final tonight features two teams that seem to have been destined to collide since the season began, as IUP hosts West Liberty. The Crimson Hawks are 32-1 and are a defensive wall, allowing only 59.9 points per game. The Hilltoppers are 30-3, with an offense that can explode at any time, averaging 101.2 points per game, and leading all of Division II in three-pointers per game.
The Hilltoppers are led by Latrobe graduate Bryce Butler, whose mother went to IUP and who is averaging 22.3 points per game. The Crimson Hawks’ balanced attack is led by Shawndale Jones, who led the PSAC with an average of 19.4 points per game.
IUP coach Joe Lombardi knows he has to defend the three-point line.
Lombardi says IUP will have to play its very best basketball to have a chance to win.
The coach, who won his 400th career game on Sunday against Virginia Union, says his team has had to learn how to handle the high expectations that came with bringing so many players back from last year’s national semifinalists.
West Liberty coach Ben Howlett says his players are hungry for a trip to the Elite Eight.
Howlett says the Hilltoppers have to be able to scrap on the boards tonight.
Howlett says he hopes his depth can overcome IUP’s disciplined game.
Tonight’s game tips off at 7 o’clock. We’re on the air at 6:15 with Jack Benedict and Tony Coccagna on 92.5 FM U92 and on U92radio.com.
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