Up to their Old Tricks

It's crazy to think that George Mason has already made it further through the Colonial Athletic Association tournament this year than last year.

Last year, the Patriots were ousted in the CAA tourney semifinals by Hofstra, but made a miracle run to the Final Four. This year sixth-seeded GMU (18-14, 10-9 humiliated No. 2 Old Dominion 79-63 in the CAA semifinals, but struggled all season to tread above .500.

George Mason Coach Jim Larranaga attributed his team's run in the CAA tourney, comprising three wins in three days, to a great week of practice.

"Everyone was so energized and so focused," said Larranaga, whose now familiar mug was plastered all over the TV and papers during last year's NCAA tourney coverage.

That energy and focus was certainly exhibited by sophomore guard Dre Smith , who lit it up with 19 points. Folarin Campbell dropped in 18 points and grabbed eight boards.

Mason surged ahead of Old Dominion (24-8, 15-4) from the opening tip, leading by 15 at the break and extending the second-half lead to as many as 22 points. The Monarchs got as close as 12 points when they trailed 61-49 with 4:38 remaining in the game. ODU, which shot 35 percent from the floor for the game, was led by Drew Williamson with 16 points. Last year's NIT semifinalists will now hope that 24 wins, an impressive RPI of 33 and an early victory over Georgetown are enough to merit an at-large bid to the NCAA tourney.

The VCU faithful in the Coliseum cheered for the upset-minded Patriots, that is, until the smattering of Mason fans celebrated their blowout lead by chanting "We want VCU." In response, one rabid Ram fans held up a sign, "Last year won't help you tomorrow."

As for the obvious question posed to Larranaga in the post-game press conference, the charismatic coach said he isn't worried about his players playing four games in as many days.

"I don't think they'll ever get tired," he said. "We had so much energy at the shoot-around this morning."

Added senior Gabe Norwood : "We were the last year and we know how much fun it was to be in the NCAA tournament…And we want to keep having fun."

After tomorrow night's 7 p.m. championship tilt with VCU, Norwood will have played more games for the Patriots than any other player. Also, both Will Thomas and Folarin Campbell went over the 1,000-point career mark in the semifinal game.

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RBlog coverage In addition to our comprehensive game coverage, we'll also be delivering lighter takes and the inside scoop from the Richmond Coliseum. From the beer taps to the mascots' locker room, we'll be there. VOTE: Who will win the CAA men's tourney? Check out our Ultimate CAA Guide for all the info!