Toledo rocketed away from Robert Morris with a big first-half run in the final game of the 2019 MABC Invitational on Sunday, and the Colonials could never catch up, falling to 1-4 on the season with a 70-56 loss to the Rockets.
The game was tied at 15-15 in the middle of the first half when the Rockets used the 3-point ball to accelerate on a 16-2 run that gave Toledo a margin they’d never relinquish.
Keshaun Saunders, Marreon Jackson and Luke Knapke all hit from long range in the rally and Saunders made three free throws after being fouled beyond the arc. As a team, Toledo shot 9 of 20 (45% from beyond the arc.
“We’re explaining to our guys that every possession in a Division I basketball game is so critical,” head coach Andrew Toole said. “As the rotation went through, there was too much of a letdown. As soon as there was a crack, Toledo took advantage. That’s a team that can shoot the ball at an extremely high level. We continued to fight, and that’s a sign of growth. You have to be able to continue to fight. That’s going to help us get over the hump.”
Saunders led the Rockets with 18 points. Former Duquesne guard Spencer Littleson had 17 points and was 3 for 6 from 3-point range.
Jon Williams led the way offensively for the Colonials with 11 points, while AJ Bramah had 10 points and 16 rebounds for a double-double. Five of his boards came on the offensive glass. Bramah also had four steals and three assists.
“AJ seemed to be everywhere, and he played with great energy,” Toole said. “We need that guy constantly working and constantly crashing the glass. We’ve seen what kind of player AJ can be when he’s locked in. Certainly a great game from him today.”
The Colonials will continue a four-game road swing when they visit UIC on Thursday at 8 p.m. They’ll then continue on to Marquette on Saturday at 2 p.m. before returning to host Geneva College on Nov. 27 at 7 p.m. for their second home game at UPMC Events Center.
