FAU stifles North Texas defensively, winning 57-47

The Owls held the Mean Green to a mere 33-percent shooting.

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FAU redshirt freshman forward Karlis Silins (25) attempts to score a point after being fouled by a Palm Beach Atlantic player. Photo by: Alexander Rodriguez

Zachary Weinberger, Staff Writer

Thursday night marked a huge win for FAU, as it took down Conference USA powerhouse North Texas, 57-47.

The Mean Green have been dominant offensively this season, averaging over 70 a game. But FAU coach Dusty May and his team pulled every trick out of the hat to shut them down.

FAU’s defense and physicality was what won them the game. The Owls forced North Texas into shooting only 33 percent from the field and 30 percent from deep. FAU was also more active on the glass, out-rebounding the Mean Green, 37-30.

While the defense was the X-factor for FAU, the offense was solid as well. Guard Anthony Adger recorded 15 points tonight, continuing his torrid scoring pace this season. Karlis Silins almost posted a double-double, scoring 14 points and adding seven boards.

Xavian Stapleton was also one of the keys to FAU’s victory. He knocked down four three-pointers, giving the Owls the floor spacing it needed to be productive offensively.

The Owls hope to keep up the momentum this Saturday, when they take on Rice at 2 p.m. in the Burrow.

Zachary Weinberger is a staff writer with the University Press. For information regarding this or other stories, email [email protected] or tweet him @ZachWeinberger