North Carolina State University Athletics
Washington Shines Bright In 2nd Half
12/23/2014 12:00:00 AM | Men's Basketball
The shots just weren't falling in the first half. The Wolfpack looked lifeless, and its most reliable shooters in Trevor Lacey and Ralston Turner had a combined nine points in the first half. All it took was a little faith in the form of one Pack player.
Louisiana Tech led 39-24 at the break after holding the Wolfpack to 34 percent in the first half. The arena was eerily quiet, and Wolfpack fans were watching as their hopes of a win quickly diminished.
For Kyle Washington, he wasn't going to settle with the way the game was going. The 6-9 sophomore scored the first two buckets of the second half, then looked into the crowd and told them to make some noise. He finished with 11 points on 5-for-7 shooting and six rebounds in the second half.
"In the second half, I thought that Kyle was our best option to score. I thought his baskets got us going," head coach Mark Gottfried said.
With twelve minutes left in the game, Washington hit a shot and was then fouled. Stomping around the court, Washington decided it was his time to shine. Washington started the rally, and Lacey and Cat Barber finished it. Both guards scored in double figures in the second half and slammed the door shut on La Tech 73-65.
Gottfried added: "Our guards have to trust our forwards. There is confidence that can be gained that way."
Washington's love for the game seemed to shine extra bright tonight, as he was told by referee Doug Shows to quit his talking. Walking over and giving him a gentle pat, Washington responded by saying, "I love the game, baby. Just love the game."
Gottfried seemed to agree saying, "I'm not sure you can make a comeback like we did unless you have great character."
