Chippewas handled by Aggies

ANCHORAGE - Central Michigan got 14 points from Austin McBroom and 12 from Trey Zeigler in a 78-49 loss to New Mexico State in the opening round of the Carrs/Safeway Great Alaska Shootout.

The Chippewas (2-2) were dominated from the start, out-rebounded 24-18 and forced into 14 turnovers before halftime. The Aggies (4-0) used a full-court press and an athletic lineup, grabbing 12 offensive rebounds and attempting eight more shots than the Chippewas, who committed 14 first-half fouls that led to a 16-of-22 performance at the line for New Mexico State. Central, meanwhile, went just 1-of-2. Six Chippewas got into early foul trouble, racking up two fouls each before halftime.

The Aggies jumped out to a 12-2 lead and the Chippewas were able to keep their deficit near 10 for much of the half before a 10-4 run in the last four minutes stretched the Aggies' lead to 16, 34-18, at halftime.

"We ran into a buzz saw tonight," said head coach Ernie Zeigler. "I have to congratulate the Aggies. They really frustrated us with their defensive pressure and their athleticism. We knew they had all these attributes but it's one thing to watch them on film and another to compete against them."

Central finished the contest with 21 turnovers and was out-rebounded, 54-35, while New Mexico State was sent to the free throw line 49 times.

"We don't have to think about this one too long luckily," said Zeigler. "We get a chance to rebound in less than 24 hours."

The Chippewas will be back in action Friday at 6 p.m. EST against either UC Irvine, who lost to Southern Miss in the opening round, 78-67.

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