VCU’s junior forward/center Larry Sanders put on a show for the NBA scouts on press row at the Siegel Center. But at the end of the game it was junior guard Ed Nixon’s contribution off the bench, 17 points and smothering defense, that sealed the deal: VCU 85, Nevada 76.

Not unlike the Oklahoma game, last Saturday, VCU established an early lead and wouldn’t give it up.

Yes, the pro scouts were there to see the much-heralded Sanders, who stands 6-11, and he put on a show — 17 points, 14 rebounds, five blocks, two assists. But they were there just as much to see Nevada’s 6-9 lefty Luke Babbitt, a sophomore forward, who’s a serious threat to score from anywhere within 25 feet of the basket.

Babbitt scored 27 points, grabbed 11 rebounds and dished for two. Most of his damage came in the second half.

Rams head coach Shaka Smart said, “Babbitt is phenomenal! If he’s not one of the best 10 players in the country, I don’t know who is.”

Of Sanders, Wolf Pack head coach David Carter said, “When [Sanders] is in the game, he changes it. He had a tremendous game.”

A subdued Babbitt said, “It’s frustrating to come all this way and not play our best game.”

Both coaches cited VCU’s depth as a big factor. Which leads back to Nixon. His baskets came at crucial points. He hit a couple of treys that were huge. His jump shot has a higher arc this season. Nixon, 6-4, said he worked on just that in the off-season.

Points or not, Nixon is Smart’s favorite defensive player, so far this season. “Ed has been outstanding for us,” Smart added. “He’s done a great job at both sides of the court.”

The hustling Rams shot at a 49.2 percent clip, while the holding the heretofore high-scoring Wolf Pack to 35.4 percent from the field.

VCU sophomore guard/forward Bradford Burgess, 6-5, turned in another steady game. His 12 points, five boards and two blocks came smoothly. His ability to play inside, when Smart needs it, has been crucial to his coach’s plan to go at full speed, wall-to-wall.

The VCU Rams (4-1) will play on Wednesday, again at home. Their opponent will be the Rhode Island Rams (3-0) in a 7:30 p.m. tilt.

Click here to see the box score.

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