Both George Mason and George Washington are coming off rough weeks.
The Patriots suffered a inexplicable 68-65 loss to Coppin State in their final non-conference game. The Patriots blew a 13 point second half lead to boot.
Despite the loss there Tyler Kolek was named Atlantic 10 Rookie of the Week. In the Coppin State loss, Kolek scored career-high 19 points. His good play continued into today’s double overtime win over UMass.
George Mason’s (5-2) 93-92 win doesn’t happen if Kolek doesn’t hit three clutch free throws at the end of regulation. The free throws erased an eight point UMass lead (with 1:20 left) but that the only comeback Mason forged.
The Patriots were down seven in the first overtime and five in the second overtime. In both instances, Jamal Hartwell II came up with huge shots. He hit a 3-pointer to send the game into a second overtime and two three-pointers with under two minutes to go in the second overtime.
George Washington has lost close game after close game this season but that hasn’t been their only loss. After losing Maceo Jack (left program) it was reported today that Jameer Nelson Jr. and Ace Stallings were also leaving the program though no official word from the university.
The Colonials (2-6) responded with a 71-47 win over Fordham. Sophomore, Jamison Battle, had a season-high 24 points and James Bishop had 23 including 19 in the second half.
George Washington shot 50% from the floor.
