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Marquette took care of business at home against Eastern Illinois Saturday night. Eastern Illinois had made the short trip to Milwaukee from Madison after playing Wisconsin on Wednesday.
Marquette’s first half was highlighted by big men knocking down threes. Theo John showed a nice, new stroke, nailing the first three of his career (on his first attempt). Justin Lewis followed the senior’s lead, hitting his first career three (although in his second game) as well. This combined with Dawson Garcia shooting 3-4 from beyond the arc in the first half. Marquette could’t bury Eastern Illinois in the first half, holding a 38-26 lead at the break.
Marquette had to come out ready in the second half, especially after Eastern Illinois outscored Wisconsin 47-34 in the second half of their matchup on Wednesday. 19 second half points from DJ Carton and Koby McEwen led Marquette to securing a 75-50 victory.
Marquette showcased their balanced scoring attack yet again. Four players reached double figures again with no player attempting more than 10 shots. Garcia led the way again with 16 points while also grabbing 8 rebounds. McEwen (14), Carton (13), and Lewis (10) were the other three in double figures. John also finished with a strong nine points and nine rebounds.
Marquette’s rotation appeared to come to light. Garcia, John, McEwen, Carton, Jamal Cain, Lewis, and Symir Torrence are the clear top seven. Greg Elliott and Jose Perez appear to be eighth and ninth man while Oso Ighodaro rounding out the bench. Jose Perez might be one of the best ninth men in the country, highlighting how deep Marquette’s depth is this season. How Wojo will utilize this deep bench is unclear. He could emphasize a quicker pace or have his players pick up their assignment at full court. Whatever he chooses to do (or not do), he will have many different players capable of having a hot hand on a given night.
Marquette’s next matchup comes against Oklahoma State and number one high school recruit Cade Cunnungham. Catch this battle between two top freshmen on Monday at 7:00 PM ET.