GREENSBORO, NC (93.7 The Fan) – It's an area that's been exploitable for most of the season and especially the last few games with either a limited on unavailable Federiko Federiko, the paint. Sean Miller knew it and took advantage of it. Xavier advances to the Sweet 16 with an 84-73 win over Pitt Sunday.
It started as a back-and-forth game, Panthers up 15-14 at the 13:33 mark before Xavier not only used the paint but the three-pointer. Colby Jones hit a pair as Adam Kunkel finished out a perfect first half with a few threes, going 5-5 in the first 20 minutes. The Musketeers also showed by they were the best team in the nation sharing the basketball, 17 assists on 19 made field goals.
"They played terrific basketball," said Pitt head coach Jeff Capel. "Especially in the first half. They really shot it well. They were very connected offensively, and they were able to get a lead going to halftime and had a lot of momentum. So congrats to them. I wish them luck. Sean has done an outstanding job with his team."
Offensively, the Panthers hit 40% of its shots, 3-9 from three in the first half, but often weren't able to get their guards free for good looks. Xavier able to overplay up top without fear of Pitt scoring in the paint.
Panthers would have opportunities in the second half, but couldn't hit shots when they did get defensive stops. It wasn't just the 3-11 from three, but the 6-12 free throws in the second half. Pitt had a frantic run at the end, but just too many missed opportunities earlier.
Blake Hinson with 18 points (7-13 FG, 3-8 from 3), Jamarius Burton 16 points (7-18 FG), Guillermo Diaz Graham with 11 points and 8 rebounds. Nelly Cummings 9 points (3-14 FG) and 5 assists.
Panthers finished the season 24-12.
