James delivers as Rhody snags road win

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Thursday, January 27, 2011

GoLocalProv Sports Team

Once again, Delroy James came to the rescue for Rhode Island with another road game in jeopardy.

James scored back-to-back baskets in the closing minutes Wednesday to put the Rams ahead for good in a 59-57 win over St. Louis at the Chaifetz Arena.

Rhode Island (13-7, 4-2 Atlantic 10) trailed, 54-51, following a jumper by Jordair Jett with 4:48 remaining. James scored on the ensuing possession to cut the deficit to one and then scored again off his own rebound in transition with 2:58 remaining to put Rhode Island in front, 55-54.

The Rams held St. Louis (7-12, 2-4 A-10) scoreless following Jett’s bucket at the 15:12 mark. Will Martell scored four points in the final 18 seconds to seal the win, including a layup and a pair of free throws.

The game remained close throughout. Neither team led by more than three points until Rhode Island opened up a four-point lead on a jumper by Marquis Jones with 17:15 remaining. Richmond stormed back and opened up a five-point lead at the 5:33 mark following a pair of free throws by Christian Salecich.

The back-to-back baskets by James in the closing minutes capped a stretch in which he scored eight consecutive points. James led all scorers with 21 points on 10-of-19 shooting. Jones also reached double figures with 13 points. James has led Rhode Island in scoring 13 times this season.

Jett led the Billikens with 14 points off the bench. The Rams have won four of their last five games and will return to action Sunday at the University of Massachusetts.