Rockets put 4-0 mark on line vs. Pats

12/2/2000

The University of Toledo men's basketball team looks to remain unbeaten tonight when it plays host to George Mason at 7 in Savage Hall. But George Mason is no patsy.

The Rockets are 4-0 for the second time in three years. George Mason, 3-1, is led by former Bowling Green coach Jim Larranaga.

Larranaga has a 50-41 record in his four seasons at George Mason. He was 170-144 in 11 years with the Falcons, and his teams captured two Mid-American Conference championships.

George Mason has won its last three games after opening the year with a 79-68 loss to New Mexico. The Patriots are led by two-time Colonial Athletic Association player of the year George Evans, who is averaging 19.8 points and 6.8 rebounds per game.

Evans turned in a big effort against the Rockets last year at Savage Hall, scoring 38 points in an 82-74 loss. It was the most points scored against the Rockets at home since Miami's Ron Harper lit them up for 41 on Feb. 4, 1986.

Also expected to start for the Patriots is Jon Larranaga, a 6-6 sophomore forward and the coach's son. Jon Larranaga played at St. John's Jesuit early in his high school career.

UT beat Detroit 78-72 at home Wednesday night as seniors Robierre Cullars, Craig Rodgers and Greg Stempin combined for 37 of Toledo's 48 second-half points.

At 2 today in Savage Hall, the Toledo women will play host to Duquesne. The Rockets are 2-1, Duquesne 3-2.