NEWAK, NJ- Two straight. In the Big East even modest win streaks are to be savored. Seton Hall won their second straight defeating Pitt 73-66 at the Prudential Center on Sunday. The pace and efficiency:.

Right around Pitt’s pace, Seton Hall seemed very comfortable in that setting. Their offensive efficiency was outstanding. As noted in the pre-game assessment, the Hall entered with a 92 offensive efficiency. What was the difference? Try a low TO rate of 15% coupled with the ability to hit shots. The Pirates enjoyed a 54% eFG mark, sparked by a 10 of 23 (42.5%) performance from thee point range.

Herb Pope enjoyed a stat stuffing afternoon with 19 points, 14 boards and three blocks. Aaron Cosby added 19 points on 5 of 9 shooting from three. Jordan Theodore added 15 points but his 9 assist, one turnover performance was especially gratifying to Pirate faithful.

Ashton Gibbs, the former Seton Hall Prep standout, paced all scorers with 26 points. Big difference for Pitt in Jamie Dixon’s estimation was his team’s inability to bury that perimeter shot. The Panthers were 6 of 19 from long distance. Dixon also made it clear he wants Pitt to rely less on the outside and go more inside/out in their attack.

For Seton Hall coach Kevin Willard, a nice win. Seniors Pope and Theodore made their presence felt. On the other hand, young players like Brandon Mobley on defense, made some big plays in the stretch and showed confidence.

Even ‘flagman’ came up big with a sterling performance.