Before the game, many expected returning players Johnny Kinziger and Chase Walker to lead the team. Instead, freshman Ty’Reek Coleman stepped up in a big way.
Coleman came off the bench and scored 24 points, with 16 of those coming in the first half. His strong performance helped the Redbirds come back from being down by 10 points to take the lead at halftime.
Head Coach Ryan Pedon said Coleman gave the team the spark they needed.
“He singlehandedly changed the momentum of the game early on, and it was his speed, his quickness, and his athleticism,” Pedon said.
Coleman said he was just focused on doing his part.
“I kinda went out there and played my role,” Coleman said. “Right now I think I’ve been a spark off the bench. Even in the first game against Ohio, I tried to come in and bring energy, and I did the same thing today.”
The Redbirds now head to the West Coast to play Southern California on Friday at 6:30 p.m.