Shockers hold off Aggies

         In the first half of the game, Wichita State could do no wrong. The defense was solid, but with the huge help from David Kyles leading WSU's offense to an 18 point lead. To end the half, Wichita State's Demetric Williams hit a 3 pointer this put the Shockers up by 21 at the half. Wichita State had excellent defense and only managed to commit five fouls in the first half. The Aggies seemed to have no answer to Wichita State's untouchable offense and careful ball handling.
        The Aggies came to Wichita for the first time in years. This match was a replacement for the horrible accident, where 31 players from the Wichita State's football team died in a tragic plane crash. Utah accepted the Shockers with open arms, feeding the team, and giving them a place to stay. WSU gave a plaque to Utah for their generosity during our time of need. Looking around, one could see signs that stated, "Thank You Utah State." In the student section, one could even see individual letters that spelled out Thank You. This was a nice touch and sent chills up my spine. However, the Shockers did not let up.
          Surprisingly, Utah State came out strong the second half, causing a change in the tide. The lead was brought down by huge threes from Aggies various players . The Shockers were unable to make their shots fall and unable to get any fouls in the lane. The roughness played on both sides of the court, causing each team to get into double digit foul trouble. With a huge hand from Joe Ragland, the Shockers held off the Aggies! He went on to score 13 points in the half, handling the ball well, and committing only 2 fouls. A huge three with 6 minutes left in the half, allowed the Shockers to slow down the game. Utah, forced to foul, had no hope to gain back the points they allowed the Shockers to make.
          Wichita State's seniors did not step up like they did against Tulsa. The Shockers relaxed at the half and were able to pull off a win. With Conference play about to start, the fans are hoping that the Shockers can continue to play like the team found against UNLV with the leaders found in Tulsa. Creighton had a huge loss tonight which will likely put them out of the top 25. There may be a glimmer of hope that Wichita State can make themselves a target in the top 25, but will show that the team deserves. Keeping up the hard work, one can see the determination from Greg Marshall's team.