Defense propels Hoyas past Longwood

December 11, 2012 - After starting out slowly against Longwood last night, the Hoyas outpaced their visitors 25-14 to finish the first half, and 17-6 over the second half's first five minutes, before cruising to an 89-53 win at Verizon Center last night. Sophomore forward Otto Porter paced all scorers with 22 points and seven assists - both career highs - while also contributing four rebounds and steals.

Joining Porter on the scoreboard were 11 G'Town players. Junior point guard Markel Starks was the only other double figure scorer (17 points). Sophomore swingman Greg Whittington added eight points, while a trio - junior forward Nate Lubick, sophomore guard Jabril Trawick and freshman guard D'Vauntes Smith-Rivera contributed six a piece.

Georgetown shot 53.7% from the field, yet only managed to sink 30% from three point land. Their success and proficiency in scoring was fueled by defense, and the 30 turnovers it produced. Resultantly the Hoya's offensive output Monday evening was its best of the year, and second best over the last two seasons.

Longwood managed to shoot 22 less field goal attempts - again due in large measure to turnovers - and shot 44.4% overall, 33.3% beyond that arc. Redshirt sophomore forward Jeylani Dublin paced the Lancers with both 11 points and six rebounds. Freshman forward Michael Kessens added 10 points and five caroms.

G'Town (8-1) hosts Western Carolina this Saturday, while Longwood (2-7) host Southern Virginia, Thursday.

To read coach John Thompson III's halftime comments, see Premium Court. Also there is discussion of the game. Click here for in-game chat, here for post game talk.