The first half started off exactly how EMU wanted it to. The Eagles lead through most of the first 12 minutes thanks to stifling defense that caught UT off guard. Ten minutes in Toledo was shooting below 30 percent from the field.
Then, as predicted in the preview of tonight's game, Toledo built up a nice little run. A few minutes later the Rockets had the lead and had gotten their shooting percentage up by nearly 20 percent. UT was able to get inside on EMU, mainly thanks to Rian Pearson who showed no fear in slashing through the paint. The Rockets lead increased to 21-28 with under four minutes to go.
EMU battled back, even sinking a 3-pointer at the buzzer, to cut UT's lead to 32-28, and the game is clearly paying into the Eagles style right now.