In what has been every bit the tough and physical game many expected, the Butler Bulldogs have inched ahead of the VCU Rams and lead 25-24 at the under four minute timeout in the first of the 2011 Final Four matchups in Houston.
Butler has outrebounded the Rams by six already eight already, but the constatnt pressure of VCU has forced five Bulldog turnovers and held Butler to just 33 percent shooting from the field.
Jamie Skeen has been the star for VCU so far, scoring 10 points on four of six shooting, chipping in two rebounds and two assist. Bradford Burgess has scored nine points on three made trifectas and also added five boards.
Shelvin Mack started the game hot and continues to lead Butler, scoring 11 points on four of five shooting from the floor. Despite the team advantage on the board, big man Matt Howard has been held in check with just four points and four rebounds.