Rhode Island Starters
Jeremy Sheppard, Ishmael Leggett, Makhi Mitchell, Makhel Mitchell, Ishmael El-Amin
 
Davidson Starters
Foster Loyer, Hyunjung Lee, Sam Mennenga, Michael Jones, Luka Brajkovic

How it Happened 
Rhode Island's conference opener ended in frustrating fashion, as Davidson scored the final five points to escape with a 72-68 win over the Rams Saturday afternoon.

The Rams (9-4, 0-1 Atlantic 10) led by one point with 1:13 remaining after Makhel Mitchell hit a pair of free throws. Davidson (12-2, 2-0 A-10) got a layup from Michael Jones with 44 seconds to go to pull back in front, 69-68.

On the ensuing possession for Rhode Island, Ishmael Leggett worked his way through traffic to the basket, but his layup attempt did not fall. Despite a lot of contact, there was no call. Foster Loyer (19 points) got the rebound for the Wildcats and was fouled by Leggett. A technical foul on Mitchell sent Loyer to the free throw line for four shots. He connected on three, making it a two-possession game with 16 seconds to go.

Rhode Island was unable to score in the closing seconds, giving the Wildcats their 11th consecutive victory.

Inside the Box Score

• Rhode Island had the largest lead of the game for either side at 62-55 with 6:48 remaining after a Malik Martin basket. However, that was URI's final field goal of the day.
• The game featured 14 lead changes and 13 ties as it was a close affair throughout.
• Center Makhel Mitchell led URI with 19 points, five rebounds and two blocked shots.
• Guard Jeremy Sheppard added 17 points.
• Forward Antwan Walker offered a big game off the bench, scoring 13 points, all in the first half.
• Walked was 5-of-6 from the field, including 3-of-3 from the arc.
• He also had five assists and four rebounds.
• Rhode Island's defense limited Davidson to 6-of-24 from 3-point range, the Wildcats' worst perimeter shooting game of the season.
• Davidson was 18-of-23 at the free throw line, while Rhode Island was 12-of-17.

Up Next
The Rams are back at home Wednesday, Jan. 12 when they host Saint Joseph's. Game time is 7 p.m. on ESPN+.