I think tonight will come down to which team's "support players" step up. Enrique, Ali. Payton and Sullinger will likely get theirs', so I think a guy like Sammy or VonCameron Davis could be the real difference makers in the game.
The first time Mr. Pinky sends a double team at Enrique to help out Payton he will have clearly cast his vote as to who he thinks is the better player.
Good call. I just looked and I initially read the game stats backwards and saw 12/16 as his last rather than first game. WMU has some nice bigs but I;d sure play that kid more than the 18 minutes a game he's been averaging.
The team has had a tendency over the years to get caught watching, instead of moving, when the ball goes into the post or Ali starts backing his defender down.
Article on how Payton believes Enrique has made him a better player-
https://www.beaconjournal.com/story/sports/college/kent-state/2024/01/18/akron-zips-kent-state-golden-flashes-mens-basketball-rivalry-game-mac-chris-payton-enrique-freeman/72113973007/