Castleton, Vt.--Fifth-year forward Ousmane Kourouma (Woonsocket, R.I.) recorded 23 points and secured 20 rebounds as Rhode Island College improved to 2-0 in the Little East with a 79-75 win at VTSU Castleton on Saturday afternoon.
 
THE BASICS
Rhode Island College 79, VTSU Castleton 75
Rhode Island College (5-4, 2-0 LEC)
VTSU Castleton (1-7, 0-2 LEC)
 
HOW IT HAPPENED
• After trailing by 10 points within the first 7:40 of the game, 18-8, the Anchormen were able to battle back to overtake the hosts and end the half up one, 40-39.
 
• Despite losing the turnover battle, RIC won the offensive rebound skirmish, 19-6, leading to more second chance opportunities.
 
• The Spartans fought back and trailed by three, 78-75, with 18 seconds left, but the Anchormen would make it a two-possession game with a free throw by junior guard Isaiah Dahl (Cornelius, Ore.).
 
• Senior guard Deyshawn Tengbeh (East Providence, R.I.) helped RIC's cause with a double-double effort of 10 points and 11 rebounds.
 
• This was the second time in Kourouma's career where he has registered a 20-20 game.
 
WHAT'S NEXT
In upcoming action, Rhode Island College will continue Little East play at home vs. Southern Maine on Wednesday, Dec. 11 (7:30 p.m.).