Second-Half Surge Lifts Oregon Over Fresno State

In the first true road test of the season, the Oregon Ducks (9-3) showed no signs of panic. Down 12 points to begin the second half, Oregon comes back to defeat Fresno State (9-3), 68-61, ending the Bulldogs’ seven-game win streak.

Kenny Wooten brought the block party down to Fresno. For the second-straight game, Wooten recorded six block shots. Also, he sparked another rally for the Ducks, after trailing the Bulldogs after one half.

Along with six blocks, Wooten recorded a double-double with 13 points, and ten rebounds as Oregon used a 19-1 run to erase Fresno State’s lead. His effort proved pivotal once again before leaving the game after fouling out.

Elijah Brown was familiar with Fresno State from his time as a member of New Mexico. Brown led the Ducks in scoring with 20 points while going 4-5 from the three-point range.

Troy Brown saw his streak of double-doubles end after finishing with 13 points and seven rebounds. Payton Pritchard finished with 12 points.

Credit coach Dana Altman for keeping his young team composed. Adversity in a hostile environment did occur as Fresno State caught fire from beyond the arc. Despite a tough beginning, the Ducks settled down and began to chip away the Bulldog’s lead.

Jahmel Taylor and Deshon Taylor both finished with 19 points for Fresno State. The Bulldogs looked to be in position for a tenth-straight victory after taking the lead into halftime. Unfortunately, the hot shooting did not carry over in the second half as Oregon gained the momentum and the game.

For the second game in a row, Oregon cools off another streaking team. Previously, the Ducks ended a four-game win streak by the Vikings of Portland State.

Oregon returns home on Wednesday to conclude non-conference play against Arkansas State (6-5). Tipoff begins at 8:00 p.m. with a telecast on Pac-12 Network.