Spring Break
Rams to head home after loss to Air Force
Adam Bohlmeyer
Issue date: 3/12/09 Section: Sports
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364 four days after defeating the Wyoming Cowboys in the MWC play in game and picking up their first conference win of the season, the CSU Rams and Miles found themselves playing the opposite role. The Air Force Falcons (10-20, 1-18 MWC) defeated the Rams (9-22, 4-15 MWC) Wednesday afternoon in this year's play in game, picking up their first conference win of the year, and ending CSU's season.
Miles said he could see the irony in the situation, adding that Air Force deserved to win this game.
"They didn't just rely on three point field goals," the second-year CSU head coach said. "They drove the ball down the lane and were able to score in the paint. We couldn't stop it. They played great the final two weeks of the season and finally got an opponent that was beatable."
Air Force senior Andrew Henke hit a dagger of a three pointer with just under two minutes remaining in the showdown, giving the Falcons a 60-55 lead.
CSU senior Willis Gardner hit two three pointers with under a minute left in the game, in an attempt to keep the Rams close to the cadets, but it wouldn't be enough.
A combination of made free throws by the Falcons and missed desperation shots by the Rams guided Air Force to the second round of the tournament and sent CSU packing.
Anwar Johnson threw down a dunk for the Falcons with four seconds left, putting the exclamation point on Falcons' 71-67 victory.
Miles described the loss as utterly disappointing, explaining that the Rams have a lot of work to do if they ever want to improve.
"It's very disappointing and it's been a frustrating season," Miles said. "I was hired to raise the bar and so far have had two frustrating seasons. We will turn the tide, but it's going to take commitment and a better work ethic to get us there."
The Falcons came into the second half eager to shoot. Air Force was good early in the half, jumping ahead of the Rams for the first time since grabbing a 2-0 lead a minute into the game. Sophomore Evan Washington gave Air Force the 46-45 lead mid way through the second half, hitting a three-pointer from the corner.
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