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.
The game will be available for streaming on FloCollege, as Rice aims to bounce back in the tournament.
