MOCS HOOPS

MOCS REPORT

This is the final game of a three-game homestand that began with wins over Hiwassee and Tennessee Tech and is the SoCon opener for both teams. Johnson, a junior, has UTC in scoring in the back-to-back wins with 20 and 14 points, while recently installed starter Commander has helped open things up offensively, including nailing four of five 3-pointers against Tech. Brown has been a spark off the bench during the two-game win streak with 16 points on 80 percent shooting and 13 rebounds. Former starter Donovann Toatley remains suspended for breaking team rules. Sophomore guard A.J. Caldwell, after being cleared by the NCAA following a transfer from South Alabama, got his first game action vs. Tech and is expected to take up some of Toatley’s time.

KEYDETS REPORT

VMI has lost three consecutive games, the last one 89-68 to No. 15 Virginia Tech. Parham has led the Keydets in scoring in seven of their 10 games, and the senior guard leads the SoCon in scoring. Backcourt mate Gilkeson is coming off a career-high 21 points vs. the Hokies and is shooting a sizzling 57 percent from the field (47 percent from 3-point range).

KEY MATCHUP

The Mocs lead the overall series 42-14, but the Keydets have won three of the last four meetings, including the last two at McKenzie Arena. To break that streak UTC must keep the physical Parham from getting in the lane and creating free-throw opportunities. The Mocs must also avoid letting the red-hot Gilkeson open for easy jumpers and will try to pressure the Keydets’ guards from the start.