BGSU men’s basketball (3-0) took down the Le Moyne Dolphins (1-2) on Sunday afternoon at the Stroh Center, to earn their third straight win of the season. Despite a close first half, Bowling Green’s offense came alive in the second half to take down the Dolphins 83-60.
This 3-0 start marks the first time since 2014, and just the second time since the 1999-2000 season.
“We talk about what we’re about to do and elevate the program. Finding a level of consistency,” said head coach Todd Simon after the game. “It’s rewarding in the way we’re doing it.”
Senior guard Javontae Campbell had himself a career day, accounting for 23 points. He also had eight steals, his most in a single game throughout his career as a Falcon, and tied the program record for steals in one game.
The game was a close affair throughout the early part of the first half, with both teams playing quality offense. Neither team had been able to pull away and control the game.
At the conclusion of the first half, the Falcons found themselves ahead by only one point, 37-36. Their offense had been playing great, but the Dolphins were playing just as well, determined to keep the game close.
“[Le Moyne] was very physical,” Simon said. “We knew that coming in, but we had to do a better job just finishing through the contact.”
The first half was highlighted by a near-perfect performance from sophomore guard Josiah Shackelford. He was 4-6 on field goal attempts, 2-4 on threes, and a perfect 2-2 on free throws. He was BG’s leading scorer with 12 points.
Shackelford spoke about his performance postgame. “Staying level-headed and just shooting the ball. I knew my teammates were going to come back to me.”
Le Moyne had no trouble staying in the game and keeping it close. Senior forward Shilo Jackson was their leading scorer, with 15 points with no three-point attempts.
BGSU opened the second half by going on a 15-5 run to push itself firmly in the lead. This run was aided by three successful three-point shots.
“In the locker room, we talked about winning those first four minutes. We knew that was going to be a big part of coming in the second half,” said Shackelford.
Bowling Green was able to keep the Dolphins at arm’s length during the entirety of the second half. The offense surged, and the defense was playing better, forcing five steals and 13 rebounds.
“It was fun, it’s great to be a part of something in this program,” said Campbell at the press conference.
Shackelford finished the game with 18 points, and senior forward Sam Towns played very well too, putting up 10 points.
The Falcons now turn their attention to Davidson for their first road game of the season on Nov. 15 at John M. Belk Arena, with tip-off set for 6:00 p.m.
Falcon Media Sports Network will have full coverage of the game on bgfalconmedia.com.
