Adam Howard’s Troy Debut Ends in 71-60 Loss to UMass Despite 21 Points and 12 Rebounds From Donovan Oday
UMass spoiled Adam Howard's head-coaching debut at Troy with a 71-60 win, using a 15-0 run to open the second half. The Trojans next visit Florida State on Friday.
TROY, Ala. — Adam Howard’s first night as Troy’s head coach began with promise and ended with a lesson.
UMass used a dominant start to the second half to pull away for a 71-60 victory Monday at Trojan Arena in the MAC-Sun Belt Challenge, spoiling Howard’s coaching debut.
“Give UMass a ton of credit,” Howard said. “They’re big, they’re tough, and they’re disciplined. I thought the first 10 minutes of the game we were able to establish an identity, but Coach (Frank) Martin’s teams don’t quit. We have to get back to work, clean some things up, and keep fighting.”
How the game turned
UMass led 38-28 at halftime, then put the game away with a 15-0 run out of the locker room. Troy never got closer than nine points after that.
The Minutemen (1-0) also won the rebounding battle 47-40.
Top performers
Junjie Wang posted a double-double for UMass with 18 points and 13 rebounds. Jordan Clayton added 16 points, seven rebounds and four assists, while Dwayne Wimbley finished with 10 points and eight rebounds.
Troy (0-1) got a double-double of its own from Donovan Oday, who had 21 points and 12 rebounds. Jacoi Hutchinson, with 10 points, was the only other Trojan in double figures. Old Dominion transfer Robert Davis was held scoreless in his Troy debut, going 0-for-5 from the field in 19 minutes.
Up next
The schedule does not get easier. Troy plays at Florida State at 6 p.m. Friday.
