UCSB at Pacific Recap

20 wins. This is a nice accomplishment for the Gauchos. However, this 20 win season will be discounted in the eyes of many if the Gauchos fail to make the NCAA Tournament.

Last night was an impressive win. In case you failed to read TGM's preview (below), we weren't too confident that UCSB would pull out with a victory. TGM enjoyed a nice serving of humble pie today.

Last night's victory was important for multiple reasons. First, this victory put the Gauchos in sole possession of third place. With a match-up against Northridge, the Gauchos have a chance to help themselves in the standings if they take care of business. Second, while the final score was close, the Gauchos were able to keep a commanding lead for a majority of the game. Third, the Gauchos offensive output was not good. Despite that, they persevered and came out with a victory.

As said above, the Gauchos 98.8 efficiency rating on offense and held Pacific to 87.2. Regardless, they salvaged victory with a convincing win.

Effective Field Goal %

UCSB: 53.4%
Pacific: 45.8%

The Gauchos didn't spend much time hucking up the three last night. Instead, the focused on attacking the hoop inside the arc. Everyone was very efficient if you look at their total field goal percentages.

On defense, the Gauchos were aided by a 1-10 performance from Steffan Johnson. Most of the other Tigers were efficient.

Free Throw Rate

UCSB: 45.5
Pacific: 39.6

TGM is really proud of this line (sort of). The Gauchos got to the line 20 times. TGM is now slightly worried because UCSB shot 65% from the line again. No one was atrocious, but they need to get back to their solid FT shooting ways.

Offensive Rebounding Percentage

UCSB: 28.6%
Pacific: 43.8%

Again, one of the Gauchos biggest weaknesses was exploited again last night. Pacific gathered 14 offensive boards, while UCSB had 8. It's probably too late to change this nasty habit, but they really need to focus on it, if possible.

Turnover Percentage

UCSB: 24.7%
Pacific: 29.6%

The Gauchos did a good job of forcing turnovers last night. Unfortunately, the committed a couple turnovers themselves.

Interestingly, the Gauchos played at a pace of 60 last night, which is about 5 possessions slower than Pacific wants to play (according to conference numbers). While they weren't at the 100+ efficiency mark, I'll take this victory.

Next up is a tough match-up with Utah State in the Bracket Buster dealy-o.