The George Mason Patriots raced out to a 16 point halftime lead over the Brown Bears on Monday night. The Patriots' defense, lacking through the first four games of the season, held the Bears to just 21 points. Largely responsible for that anemic offensive production is Brown's woeful three point shooting, as they hit just three treys on an astonishing 15 first half attempts. Mason held Brown under 30% from the field overall and forced 8 turnovers.
On offense, the Patriots were once again led by Ryan Pearson. The senior, who is averaging 20 points a game in this young season, got up nine shots against the ivy league opponent and finished the half with 12 points. Defensively, the forward ramped up the pressure against Brown's overmatched frontcourt and added three steals and six defensive rebounds.
Mason is looking to bounce back after being upset by Florida Atlantic in overtime on Saturday. After one half at the Patriot Center, the Ivy League could provide just that fodder for Paul Hewitt and Mason.