Rhode Island Basketball: 3 keys for 2020-21 matchup vs. Richmond

By Dave Ascoli | Jan 6, 2021

UNCASVILLE, CONNECTICUT - NOVEMBER 25: Jeremy Sheppard #2 of the Rhode Island Rams looks on wearing his mask in a huddle with teammates during the 2K Empire Classic game against the Arizona State Sun Devils at Mohegan Sun Arena on November 25, 2020 in Uncasville, Connecticut. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images) /

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David Cox Rhode Island Basketball (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images) /

3. Win the Turnover Battle

Hey, speaking of turnovers. Yes, this could be a ‘key to the game’ for every basketball game ever, but it’s especially true for URI. Rhode Island has averaged 20 turnovers per game over their past two contests, so taking care of the ball has been an issue. And a host of the miscues have been unforced.

The Rams actually have a negative turnover margin on the season, which is uncharacteristic for the style of basketball that David Cox likes to play. If Rhody doesn’t correct that soon, they’re going to struggle as A-10 play moves on.

Gilyard’s ability to pick pockets was already covered, but it’s also worth noting that Richmond does an incredible job of protecting the ball themselves. The Spiders are 41st nationally in turnover percentage on offense, so winning this battle is a major challenge. To borrow a term from another A-10 team, Rhode Island will need to create havoc on defense in order to disrupt things.

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Is all of this possible? A big game from Fatts Russell, tough defense, and better ball control on offense? Sure it is. Rhode Island has the pieces, and they’ve shown the ability — at times — to do all three of those things. But it remains to be seen if they can put it all together before their biggest conference challenge to date.

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