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Logan • Utah State and Colorado State played a rematch Wednesday night of what Aggie coach Tim Duryea called "one of the most fun games we've been involved in for awhile."
On Jan. 16 in Fort Colllins, Chris Smith scored 35 points and Utah State prevailed in a wild shootout, 96-92. The Rams' Antwan Scott also scored 35 points, thanks to 8-for-11 shooting from the three-point line.
"Both of those guys were tremendous," Duryea said this week, "They made shots in every way … [But] we can't count on 35 points from Chris Smith every night. We have to be much better defensively if we hope to win."
Led by Scott, Colorado State leads the Mountain West Conference in scoring (81.0) and ranks 20th nationally in 3-point shots made per game (9.5).
"They are a dangerous offensive team," Duryea said. "They've proven that they can put points on the board against anybody — home or away. They are very balanced and play with a lot of unselfishness and confidence. When you're a good offensive team, you have a lot of ability, confidence and play together. … Guarding the three-point line is first and foremost when you play them."
McEwan prepares
According to social media, Wasatch Academy star and Utah State recruit Koby McEwan attended Wednesday's game.
McEwan is a four-star guard who has led Wasatch Academy to a 27-3 record this season. He announced his decision to attend USU in September on Twitter: "I've decided to commit to Utah State University. Thank you coaches for recruiting me. Thank you God for this opportunity!"
At the time, Wasatch Academy coach Curtis Condie told the Tribune, "He's very tough, very hard-nosed. He's a guard who can score and distribute the basketball. He's worked on his outside game, too."
Off the court, Condie said McEwen will "fit in great at Utah State. He's a very disciplined and determined young man. … He's one of the most focused young men I've met."
Perkins survives lineup shuffles
Utah State senior Darius Perkins, a former junior college transfer, made his 55th straight start on Wednesday.
After last week's 80-72 win over New Mexico, Duryea credited Perkins for taking charge during a second-half timeout, which he called after the Lobos trimmed an eight-point deficit to 40-38.
"… Darius is the guy who takes it on his shoulders and feels it's his role as the point guard," Duryea said. "He asserted himself and the guys responded to it... ."
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