Men’s basketball glad to be home

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Freshman Andrew Frankenreider (32) rushes the ball down court Nov. 8 against Omaha Nebraska.

By Brian Earle

After playing six of its last seven games on the road, men’s basketball will return to DeKalb for a MAC showdown against Kent State at 7 p.m. today at the Convocation Center.

The Huskies (7-7, 1-1 MAC) are coming off a 45-36 victory over Bowling Green in what was a defensive battle. The Golden Flashes (10-5, 1-1 MAC) present the Huskies with the third-best offensive attack in the MAC, averaging 74.3 points per game.

Kent State is led by a trio of players who average double digits this season. Guard Kris Brewer leads the team with 11.9 points per game, while guard Derek Jackson scores 10.9 points per game and forward Darren Goodson adds 10.8 points per game.

“It starts with their guard play, with Brewer, [Devareaux] Manley and Jackson,” said coach Mark Montgomery. “So our back court is going to have to step up and make sure we take away that dribble penetration, contest shots and get to shooters.”

The strength of the Golden Flashes’ offense this season has been their play from behind the arc. They rely heavily on their 3-point shooting, hitting 109 3-pointers, which is the second-most in the MAC.

Guard Devareaux Manley has been Kent State’s most dangerous threat behind the arc, drilling a team-high 31 3-point field goals, the second-most in the MAC.

“You have to be there on the catch, with a high hand,” Montgomery said. “We have to make them put the ball on the ground, and then we have to have early help just in case those guys dribble drive. But it will be a good challenge. They are good players.”

The Huskies have played well in their recent games, winning four of their last six, and their play in transition has played a big part in their success.

“Well, our defense has been leading to our offense,” said guard Travon Baker. “Once we get out in transition we’re a great team, and in the half court we just pound it inside and play inside-out.”

The Huskies have been looking to limit opposing teams to one shot, secure the ball and get out in transition.

“I think transition is a key for us in every game,” said wing Darrell Bowie. “Especially when Travon pushes it. He pushes it hard, and he either looks up and hits the open man or he tries to attack and get to the rim and make plays for others.”