FORT COLLINS — Ever since winning Mountain West Conference men’s basketball player of the week honors this month, Colorado State’s Andy Ogide spent more time on the bench than on the court.
That changed Wednesday night at Moby Arena. The junior forward posted his first double-double of the season, contributing 14 points and 10 rebounds to the Rams’ 63-57 victory over Texas Christian.
“It’s about time,” Ogide said. “I should be doing that just about every night. I’m pursuing the ball a little more, a little bit harder.”
CSU’s victory was sealed when Ogide scored on a baby hook for a 53-49 lead. The Rams led 58-55 with 1:31 left, trusting freshman Greg Smith and senior Travis Busch to finish it out at the free-throw line.
It was a tribute to the Rams’ depth through a solid freshman class that the game’s last 91 seconds didn’t become yet another free-throw misadventure. CSU’s Travis Franklin, who came in only 16-of-38 at the foul line in MWC games, took a seat during the intentional foul scenario. His work was complete: seven points, nine rebounds and three steals.
“We closed the game with three true freshmen in the game,” CSU coach Tim Miles said of Smith, guard Dorian Green and guard-forward Pierce Hornung. “That’s a good sign. I think they’re capable of allowing us to take the next step in this league.”
More so than Ogide shaking off the Horned Frogs’ double- and triple-team defenses used against him, the Rams clamped down on TCU guard Ronnie Moss after his 19-point outburst in the first half. Moss didn’t score after halftime until TCU’s final two free throws.
The Rams (12-8, 3-3 MWC) can move up to at least fifth place with a win over San Diego State on Saturday.
“That’s a must win,” Ogide said of any postseason shot for CSU hinging on an MWC record over .500.
Ogide was glad to emerge from Miles’ doghouse.
“We rotate the doghouse. I’ll find someone else to put in,” Miles said.
Natalie Meisler: 303-954-1295 or nmeisler@denverpost.com
