Butler players rely on defense to advance

RALEIGH, N.C. (WISH) — Butler used a Kelan Martin eight-point run to break open a second half tie, then relied on some tough defense to advance in the NCAA tournament for the ninth time in their last 10 appearances.

“We’ve been getting better on that end of the floor,” said top scorer Kellen Dunham. “If we can continue to play well on that end and keep our offense clicking, that’s a dangerous combination.”

“Coach told us trading baskets was no good,” added senior leader Roosevelt Jones. “We got that good stretch from Kelan, who I told to keep at it, we need you, and our defense did the rest.”

Coach Holtmann liked the balance with four Bulldogs in double figures.

“That’s what happens on a tournament, they lock down on a guy, and others get going. Nice win, but I told the team turn the page, we have another game Saturday,” Holtmann said.

Butler will play number one seed Virginia with a berth in the Sweet Sixteen at stake.