Marquette Declaws Cougars for 19th Win

Led by the surging Steve Novak, Marquette turned in an inspired performance last night defeating the University of Houston, 76-55. Novak led the Warriors with 23, his third straight game of more than 20 points. Todd Townsend continued his resurgence with 15 points, while Joe Chapman delivered a workman-like 13 point/5 assist performance. The key to the victory was MU's suffocating defense, which held Houston to a mere 28% shooting from the field, and contributed to MU's ridiculous 42-22 advantage on the boards.

MU jumped out to a quick 13-0 lead, and never trailed in the game. Houston, the hottest team in the conference coming into the game, cut the lead to four early in the second half after an Andre Owens 'three' (this guy likes to shoot), but MU steadied the ship with a balanced attack and pulled away.

Other perfomances of note: freshman walk-on Rob Hanley played well in 18 minutes of action, turning the ball over just twice against a much quicker team. Ryan Amoroso scored seven points and snared three rebounds - - but it was his power move (and one!) that keyed a late MU rally which buried the Cougars for good.

With one regular season game to go, Marquette stands at 19-9 overall, and 7-8 in conference play. MU closes the regular season on Saturday when they take on the St. Louis Billikens, impressive winners last night at home over Memphis. Saturday marks Senior Day as well - - the last home game for Travis Diener, Marcus Jackson and Todd Townsend.

Senior Day, a chance to secure the 20th win of the year, and perhaps a way to sneak back on the bubble - - Saturday presents a tremendous opportunity for MU.

Here are a few recaps of last night's impressive win:
Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel
Houston Chronicle
Associated Press
Box Score