Tuesday night, I had the opportunity to do my first media appearance at Central Michigan University in their game vs Akron. It was an amazing first experience, and I’m looking forward to doing more media opportunities in the future. Below are some observations I noted on the teams.
Akron
The Akron Zips traveled to Mt. Pleasant, Michigan Tuesday night to take on the Chippewas. Akron was led by sophomore Enrique Freeman who had 16 points and 11 rebounds. They took down the Chips in a close one 60-56. Akron started of slow missing some good looks and trailing 7-3 early in the first. They took a seven point lead going into half.
Xavier Castaneda was key down the stretch for the Zips. He scored the teams final seven out of nine points and had a key steal as well.
With the win, the Zips moved to 13-5 on the season and third in the MAC with a 6-2 conference record. They are clearly one of the premier teams in the conference, and they should have a chance to contend for a MAC championship.
Central Michigan
Central Michigan was led by senior Cameron Healy, who had 18 points. The Chippewas were playing decent to start as the game was back and forth most of the first half. However, Central was missing good looks and were just off on their shots. They found themselves down seven at half and were looking to come out of half fast. That was not the case as they trailed 40-29 with 16 minutes left in the game. With around 13 minutes to go, Central started mounting a comeback. They found themselves down only one with near nine minutes left. Every-time Central looked like they were going to take the lead, Akron had an answer.
Even though the Chippewas lost, there were some bright spots to look upon. Cameron Healy might just be Central’s best player with a game high 18 points. He was confident with the ball and made few mistakes. Senior Ralph Bissainthe looked good as well, he took the ball to the basket well and displayed a solid jumper. The young guys on Central were fun to watch as well. Freshman point guard Kevin Miller was very confident with his dribbling and passing skills. Freshman big-man Nicolas Pavrette has good post skills and takes it up strong. The Chips have some good young talent, and look to develop them into top-level players sooner, rather than later.