The Rice Owls, with a record of 0-0, faced off against the Wichita State Shockers in a conference game that ended with a score of 87-66. The Shockers' victory was marked by their superior field goal percentage of 53 and an impressive three-point shooting performance at 64 percent accuracy. The Owls, despite their efforts, could not match up to the home team's offensive execution.

Mar 2, 2024; Wichita, Kansas, USA; Rice Owls forward Max Fiedler (15) sets the play during the second half against the Wichita State Shockers at Charles Koch Arena. Mandatory Credit: William Purnell-USA TODAY Sports

At Charles Koch Arena, the Rice Owls showcased determination and skill but were ultimately outpaced by the Wichita State Shockers. The Owls' offense was led by their two-point attempts which saw them shoot at a respectable 53 percent from inside the arc. They also managed to convert 77 percent of their free throws and made six three-point shots throughout the game.

Defensively, Rice had its moments with six blocks and seven steals but struggled to contain Wichita State's fast-paced offense which scored nine fast break points. The rebounding battle also went in favor of the home team as they outrebounded Rice by a significant margin; collecting 38 rebounds compared to Rice's total rebound count of 23.

Mar 2, 2024; Wichita, Kansas, USA; Rice Owls forward Keanu Dawes (24) brings the ball up court around Wichita State Shockers forward Isaac Abidde (5) during the first half at Charles Koch Arena. Mandatory Credit: William Purnell-USA TODAY Sports

The assist-to-turnover ratio for Rice stood at an even keel with fourteen assists to ten turnovers while Wichita State edged slightly ahead with eighteen assists to twelve turnovers. Points off turnovers were another area where Rice showed competitiveness putting up seventeen points from this aspect but it wasn't enough against a well-rounded Shocker squad that capitalized on every opportunity.

Despite falling behind early on in both halves, scoring only thirty-nine points in the first half and twenty-seven in the second half compared to forty-two and forty-five respectively for Wichita State, there were notable individual performances from Owl players who fought valiantly until the last buzzer sounded.

Mar 2, 2024; Wichita, Kansas, USA; Wichita State Shockers forward Ronnie DeGray III (3) rebounds during the second half against the Rice Owls at Charles Koch Arena. Mandatory Credit: William Purnell-USA TODAY Sports

As fans look forward to future matchups, they can mark their calendars for when the Rice Owls take on Charlotte 49ers next at Dale F. Halton Arena located in Charlotte on March 6th at 6:00 PM Central Time. This upcoming game will be available for viewing on ESPN+ over internet broadcast networks.

Rice Owls - NCAA Men's Basketball - Recap

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