Fast start helps TCU claim crown

NEW YORK - Kenrich Williams had 25 points and 12 rebounds, and TCU routed Georgia Tech, 88-56, in the NIT championship on Thursday night.

TCU opened with a 20-3 run on its way to the program’s first NIT title. Vlad Brodziansky scored 18 points for the Horned Frogs (24-15), and Alex Robinson had 10 points and 11 assists.

Williams was named the tournament’s Most Outstanding Player.

Tadric Jackson led Georgia Tech (21-16) with 19 points. Josh Okogie had 12 points and six rebounds.

It was the first meeting between the ACC and Big 12 programs since Dec. 21, 1967, and No. 3 overall. And it mostly belonged to TCU, which never trailed.

The Yellow Jackets did not have a field goal until Ben Lammers’ jumper 5 minutes, 3 seconds into the game. Prior to Lammers’ basket, Georgia Tech was 0 for 6 from the field and had committed four turnovers.

The Horned Frogs led, 38-27, at halftime, and it was more of the same in the second half. Williams and Brodziansky threw down thunderous dunks, and Williams knock down a three-pointer to help push the advantage to 54-39.

TCU shot 51% from the field and held Georgia Tech to 35.7% shooting.

The lead grew to 6949 on Williams’ breakaway jam with 6:44 left. Desmond Bane tacked on a three-pointer, helping kick off the celebration for the Horned Frogs.

TCU coach Jamie Dixon emptied his bench in the final minutes, and Josh Parrish had a breakaway windmill jam in the final seconds.