George Mason broke a two-game losing streak with a 70-59 win over UMass.
Justyn Fernandez had a career-high 18 points in the win.
That moved Mason to 5-5 in the conference, 13-10 overall.
Loyola-Chicago is in deal last in the Atlantic 10. The Ramblers have lost 9 of their last 10. Last time out, they lost 85-81 in overtime at Dayton.
Mason won the first meeting 86-75.
Simply put, Mason should score as many as the want on Saturday. Loyola-Chicago hasn’t been interested in playing defense the entire season.
George Mason’s biggest opponent will be themselves.
Will they be prepared to play a road game that they are expected to win? We haven’t seen that killer instinct in games like this since Kim English has been head coach.
Things the Patriots will need to avoid:
Foul trouble: In the first game, despite the number Josh Oduro spent the game in foul trouble. With this one being on the road, not only will Oduro need to stay out of foul trouble but so will Ronald Polite III.
Take care of the Boards: Mason was outrebounded by UMass in their last game. They can’t afford to lose the boards in this one especially on the offensive boards. Can’t let the Ramblers have second shots.
Take care of business: Like I said earlier, we haven’t seen the killer instinct in this game. They must display it in a game they are expected to win.
Line: George Mason -1; Total 134.5
