Marshall men’s basketball coach Corny Jackson is urging his team to sharpen its defensive strategy following a high-scoring 97-88 victory over Old Dominion on March 5, 2024. With a current record of 19-11 overall and 11-6 in the Sun Belt Conference, the Thundering Herd finds itself tied for the top position alongside Appalachian State and Troy, all boasting identical records.
As the regular season approaches its conclusion, the stakes are high. A win for Marshall, Appalachian State, and Troy in their respective games on March 8 would secure Marshall the top seed for next week’s conference tournament as well as a share of the regular-season championship. Conversely, if Marshall loses to Georgia Southern, it could drop to fifth place, provided other top contenders win. Jackson emphasized the importance of focusing on defense as the team prepares for the crucial match.
The performance against Old Dominion raised concerns for Jackson, who described the defense as akin to a “layup line.” He stated, “We answered, but our defense overshadowed a lot of that to me. If you play really good defense, you don’t have to go and answer every single time. You have to get stops.” The Herd struggled to maintain defensive pressure, allowing Old Dominion to frequently penetrate their man-to-man defense, which prompted a shift to a zone strategy. Despite leading for most of the game, Jackson noted the need for more extended scoring droughts for opponents, something his team has previously accomplished.
Jackson has seen the potential for strong defensive play within the team. “If we want to be a championship team, we need to correct that,” he remarked, acknowledging the importance of maintaining focus, energy, and toughness heading into the final regular season game.
The Herd displayed glimpses of their potential during the encounter, including an 8-0 run that showcased their ability to generate momentum. Wyatt Fricks led the team with 28 points and contributed three blocks, while Landen Joseph, noted for his defensive prowess, added 18 points. Joseph reflected on the team’s need for more energy, stating, “Coach brought it to our attention that we’re playing with a lack of energy. That’s not us.”
In addition to addressing defensive lapses, the team’s physical health appears to be improving. Fricks, who played a significant role in the win, expressed relief at feeling better, while Erich Harding, recently under medication, contributed positively with six rebounds. Jackson remains resolute in fostering a resilient mindset among his players. He emphasized the importance of perseverance in sports and life, sharing, “We get to play basketball and coach basketball. It’s a blessing, and it’s always fun. We’re not going to take that for granted.”
As Marshall gears up for its pivotal matchup against Georgia Southern at 21:00 on March 8, the focus will be on fortifying their defense to secure their position in the Sun Belt Conference. With championship aspirations on the line, the Thundering Herd aims to harness their potential and make a strong push in the upcoming tournament in Pensacola, Florida.
