Broncos hold off the Bulldogs down in Fresno

In a game that featured 52 total fouls, a streaking Fresno, and a Chandler Hutchison that surged late, the Broncos managed to win a frustrating, ugly game down in the Save Mart Center. This was a game that the Broncos sorely needed to keep as close to Nevada as possible and keep at-large considerations alive.

The Broncos (14-3, 4-1), thankfully, never trailed in a game that would increasingly see Fresno State (12-6, 2-3) creeping close to Boise State throughout. The Broncos’ largest lead of 13 would only come at the closing end of the first half. The Broncos would go into the half leading by 11, 32-21. Thoughts of the Wyoming game collapse (where the Broncos led by 16) were buzzing.

Alex Hobbs would have himself a night with 20 points. At several times throughout the second half, he would increase the Broncos’ lead.

Justinian Jessup was quiet as he only took (and made) one shot, a three. He played 21 minutes but didn’t do too much, though he did manage to find himself in foul trouble.

Chandler Hutchison had 21 points on 3-21 (yes really) shooting, and 10 rebounds to add another double-double to his cadre. Unsurprisingly, because of the foul-happy referees, Hutchison managed to make 15-18 (83%) of his free throws.

Zach Haney found himself in foul trouble that lead to some bench time. He had zero points in the game as he was only on the court for 14 minutes. Robin Jorch also had some foul problems and only was able to squeeze 17 minutes on the court.

While the game was ugly, and way closer than it had to be, the Broncos were able to escape the Save Mart with a sorely needed win. The last time the Broncos had won down in Fresno, Chris Petersen was still the football coach. The Broncos next up have San Diego State (11-4, 3-1) at the Taco Bell Arena this Saturday at 8 p.m.