Richmond Dominates The Citadel Behind Bench Firepower
The Richmond Spiders rolled to an 80-56 victory over The Citadel on Saturday, with Jaden Daughtry providing a standout performance off the bench. Daughtry, who finished with 17 points, highlighted a deep and versatile Spiders squad that leaned on timely defense and efficient scoring to pull away in the second half.
Key Performances Fuel the Spiders
Beyond Daughtry’s 17 points, the Spiders received productive contributions from several players. Mike Walz led the team with 14 points on an efficient 6-for-7 shooting night, showcasing Richmond’s balance and depth. The bench’s impact was felt across the floor, reinforcing head coach Chris Mooney’s emphasis on movement, cutting, and high-percentage shots.
Defensively, Richmond stifled Citadel’s offense, turning stops into fast-break opportunities and limiting the Bulldogs to fewer second-chance chances. Daughtry’s four steals underscored the pressure Richmond applied on the ball and in passing lanes, turning defense into offense and helping set the tone for the night.
Impact of the Bench and Depth
The Spiders’ depth was on full display as multiple players contributed in scoring, rebounding, and defense. A strong bench combined with efficient shooting helped Richmond overcome any early-season jitters and solidify its position as a competitive force in the conference. The ability to rest starters with a meaningful lead in the second half bodes well for the team as the schedule intensifies.
How the Game Unfolded
The game emphasized a methodical pace in which Richmond controlled the tempo, picked its spots on offense, and exploited mismatches. The Spiders executed well in the half-court, using screen actions to free shooters and create quality looks from mid-range and behind the arc. Citadel, while competitive, struggled to sustain offensive rhythm against Richmond’s disciplined defense and rotating help schemes.
What This Win Means for Richmond
With the win, the Spiders improve their record, moving to 10-2 on the season. The performance showcased a mature, well-rounded team capable of winning in multiple ways—whether through dominant defense, efficient shooting, or contributions from a deep bench. For a program building toward postseason play, a victory like this reinforces morale and provides tangible evidence of growth and execution under pressure.
Looking Ahead
As conference play looms closer, Richmond will aim to maintain this mix of disciplined defense and efficient offense. The coaching staff will likely review the rotation to optimize matchups and ensure the bench continues to provide impactful minutes. For fans, the development of Daughtry and the consistency of Walz are bright signs for a season that already looks promising.
Final Thoughts
The 80-56 result reflected a game plan that prioritized defense, pace control, and efficient scoring from a balanced lineup. Jaden Daughtry’s 17 points off the bench proved pivotal, while Mike Walz’s steady 14-point performance helped stretch the floor. Richmond’s ability to leverage depth and execute in critical moments should energize the team as they push through a demanding stretch of the schedule.
