Earlier today, the GSU Panthers went to GT and handed the Yellow Jackets a defeat, 65-58. Today’s exhibition game was dubbed “A-Town Showdown for Hurricane Relief”. This exhibition game was a fundraiser for victims of Hurricanes Harvey, Irma and Maria.
Coach Hunter is now a perfect 12-0 in Exhibition games; today was the first road exhibition game in his career.
Related: Georgia State and Georgia Tech announce the “A-Town Showdown for Hurricane Relief” FUNdraising game.
Georgia State Quick Stats: D’Marcus Simonds (@TwoSpicee) recorded 30 points and 5 rebounds, while Malik Benlevi (@MastaBruce_) and Jeff Thomas (@lilsmokebomb24) combined for 25 points and 7 rebounds (each).
Georgia Tech Quick Stats: Ben Lammers and Tadric Jackson (@TadricJ1) both had 14 points, each. Ben Lammers grabbed 9 rebounds, while 3 other Yellow Jackets had 4 or more rebounds.
Final thoughts: While I recognize this is merely an exhibition game, I see both teams doing quite well this upcoming season. Georgia State is playing far more physical than I’ve seen in the past. Georgia Tech has a few things to work on, however, they will be a very solid team in the ACC.
Some media types projected Georgia State to finish middle of the pack within the SBC. From what I’ve seen, GSU’s aggressive attacking offense will stifle several teams. Defensively, turnovers and steals should be key in preventing opposing teams from getting into a rhythm. There is no reason why Georgia State cannot compete/battle for top billing within the Sun Belt Conference this season.
With a year under his belt, D’Marcus Simonds showed great improvement over last year… and is quickly emerging as a leader.
True Frosh Kane Williams (@kanewill23) and Josh Linder (@GodsCuzzin) are going to be a blast to watch and to keep track of how they mature through the season.
Post Game Interview with Coach Ron Hunter (@CoachRHunter):
Game Photos:
