Nick Bowman previews home opener for UTSA

Following a 95-74 defeat against San Jose State University on Monday, UTSA men’s basketball looks to turn things around against the Virginia Military Institute on Saturday at the Convocation Center for its home opener. 

The Roadrunners will need to address numerous shortcomings in their pursuit of victory. On the defensive side, switching and rim protection will be a massive point of emphasis for UTSA, as it routinely gave up easy drives to the basket with little resistance. Offensively, the team needs to execute consistently against a zone defense, attacking gaps and scoring consistently.

UTSA interim coach Nick Bowman spoke with the media on the matter, citing defensive improvements as his key priority headed into Saturday.  

“The biggest thing is we have to clean up our switching and pressure,” Bowman said. “Switching was very unorganized yesterday, and we never found a rhythm defensively.”

The Roadrunners allowed the Spartans to shoot 59% from the field and 38% from beyond the arc. Constant possessions saw Spartan guards taking advantage of UTSA forwards, driving to the basket with ease after receiving high ball screens. On-ball pressure and protecting the rim will be essential against the Keydets, who possess a similarly high-level backcourt.

“The first thing we’re going to have to do is protect the basket,” Bowman said. “We have to make our pressure matter, regardless of who we’re playing.”

Consistent defensive pressure will be the key to a victory, along with a consistent stream of offensive scoring. Matched up against a 2-3 zone defense, the Roadrunners have to attack the zone’s weak points. Hitting the high post and slashing through gaps will be just as important as defensive intensity if UTSA is to win. 

“We have to make sure we attack the zone in the right way,” Bowman said. “Getting the ball inside out, we need to get the shots that we want. That’ll be a huge part of Saturday.”

Despite having four players score in double figures, UTSA routinely faced scoring droughts against the Spartans. This handicapped the team severely, cutting off any offensive momentum the Roadrunners tried to build. Now facing an entirely different defensive threat, droughts will undoubtedly need to be reduced. UTSA must be on top of its game on both sides of the court headed into the home opener.

Though the ‘Runners will have their hands full against the Keydets, Bowman remained optimistic for the home opener. He routinely praised UTSA, citing his excitement and enthusiasm for the matchup.

“We’re super excited about the home opener, and we need everybody to come out and help the team,” Bowman said. “This team deserves it. They’re a great group, and they love UTSA, so I know they’re excited for the home opener too.”

The Roadrunners will take on the Keydets Saturday at 4 p.m. at the Convocation Center.

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