Rice Edged Out by Kennesaw State in Coconut Hoops Opener Thriller

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Rice Edged Out by Kennesaw State in Coconut Hoops Opener Thriller

In a thrilling season opener at the Coconut Hoops Tournament, Rice University faced Kennesaw State University, falling 89-84 in overtime. The game took place Monday night at Alico Arena in Fort Myers, Florida.

Game Summary

The match began competitively, with Rice taking an early lead of 5-2. Shortly after, Cam Carroll’s three free throws pushed them to a 16-13 advantage. Kennesaw State turned the tide with a strong 12-2 run, establishing their largest lead of the night at 25-18.

However, Rice responded effectively. Eternity Eguagie contributed two consecutive three-pointers, which helped narrow the gap. The teams exchanged baskets, and the first half concluded with Rice holding a slight 41-40 lead thanks to a jumper by Jalen Smith.

Second Half Action

Rice started the second half aggressively, mounting an 11-4 run. With contributions from Stephen Giwa and Trae Broadnax, Rice extended the lead to 56-45. Kennesaw State quickly responded, cutting the deficit and setting up a tightly contested final quarter.

As the game progressed, both teams continued to trade baskets. With 4:13 left in regulation, Rice briefly led 74-68. Yet Kennesaw State rallied, tying the game at 79 with less than a minute remaining. Jalen Smith’s free throw gave Rice a fleeting lead, but KSU’s Simeon Cottle leveled the score with a last-second jumper, sending the game into overtime.

Overtime Struggles

Overtime proved challenging for Rice. KSU quickly seized control, and despite a late free throw from Smith, Rice could not regain momentum. Kennesaw State maintained their lead, culminating in a decisive win.

Key Statistics

Rice field goal percentage: 41.9% (26-of-62)
Rice three-point percentage: 34.8% (8-of-23)
Rice free throw percentage: 63.2% (24-of-38)
Kennesaw State field goal percentage: 40.0% (28-of-70)
Kennesaw State three-point percentage: 34.5% (10-of-29)
Kennesaw State free throw percentage: 76.7% (23-of-30)
Rebounds: Kennesaw State 44, Rice 41

Player Highlights

Nick Anderson (G/F): 18 points, 6 rebounds
Trae Broadnax (G): 12 points, 5 rebounds, 3 steals
Jalen Smith (G): 11 points, 5 rebounds
Andrew Akuchie (F): 10 points, 5 rebounds, 3 blocks
Bodey Howell (G): Career-high 10 points
Cam Carroll (G): 7 points, game-high 4 assists

Looking Ahead

With this loss, Rice’s record stands at 2-5 for the season. The team will face Florida Gulf Coast in their next game on November 25, with a tip-off scheduled for 6 p.m. CT.