Last night, Charleston edged out a thrilling double-overtime victory over Florida Atlantic 119-116 in a game that showcased both teams’ early-season promise.
In a game with a final score reminiscent of today’s NBA totals, the teams combined for 31 3-pointers and 84 total field goals. Here are three takeaways for the Cougars:
Ante Brzovic: Buy Stock Now
After former Charleston coach Pat Kelsey left for Louisville, questions swirled about which players would stay. Among those who remained, none have been more impactful than Brzovic. He delivered an outstanding performance with 39 points and 13 rebounds, capped off by a game-winning shot in double overtime. This wasn’t a fluke — Brzovic is averaging 33 points per game, solidifying his status as one of the top players in college basketball.
Derrin Boyd is Back
After tearing his ACL last season while at Lipscomb, Boyd made his long-anticipated debut for the Cougars. Boyd didn’t disappoint, scoring 18 points, grabbing seven rebounds and dishing out six assists. He also nailed four of seven 3-point attempts, showcasing the same shooting prowess he had at Lipscomb.
This Team Can Score
The Cougars (3-0) have proven themselves as one of the top offensive teams in the nation. As of Friday, they rank eighth in scoring offense, averaging 98.3 points per game. Their 119-point outburst against FAU (2-2) highlighted their offensive depth. However, defense remains a glaring issue — they’ve allowed 89 points per game through their first three contests, ranking near the bottom nationally.
