Morehead State Earns an NCAA Tournament Win

Morehead State 58
Alabama State 43

NCAA Opening Round

The Morehead State Eagles have picked up an NCAA Tournament win in their first NCAA appearance in 25 years. The Eagles seemed to be in control of the game from the tip and the outcome was never seriously in doubt. Kenneth Faried dominated the paint and virtually eliminated Alabama State's seven-footer Chief Kickingstallionsims.

Faried led Morehead State (20-15) with his 24th double-double of the season. He finished with 14 points and 21 rebounds. The Eagles picked up 14 points and 8 rebounds from senior Leon Buchanan. Maze Stallworth chipped in 11 points and Demonte Harper contributed 10.

Alabama State (22-10) was led by Andrew Hayles with 14 points, but he was only 5-17 from the field. Brandon Brooks added 10 points but he also struggled from the field, shooting 5-13.

Morehead State controlled the glass in out-rebounding the Hornets 47-26. The Eagles had 13 assists on 18 made field goals.

Morehead advances to the 16-seed position to face overall number-one seed Louisville on Friday night. That game will also be played in Dayton.

My Thoughts: Morehead State looked very good tonight. They didn't shoot the ball great (36%), but they dominated the paint and simply out-hustled Alabama State. Kenneth Faried is a game-changing performer and a monster in the paint. I love a player that works his tail off and actually goes to get the ball, rather than just hoping it bounces in his direction. As an MSU alum, I'm very pleased. Watch out Cardinals!

ESPN Game Recap

ESPN Box Score

Related Links:

Nice Article About Morehead State's Kenneth Faried

Morehead State In the NCAA Tournament