Despite another slow start (is this going to be commonplace?), the Deacs pulled away midway through the first half and never let up, winning by a final score of 76-52.
Winston-Salem State just could not keep up with Wake Forest's speed, Ish Smith in particular. Smith 16 points on 7-9 shooting and was +26. CJ Harris matched Smith shot for shot, finishing with 16 points of his own along with 5 rebounds and a staggering 85 eFG% (FGM + (0.5 x 3PM))/FGA).
The Deacs dominated in just about statistical category--efficiency, assist percentage, etc...--but the keys again (which is becoming commonplace) were transition buckets, rebounding and defense. The Deacs' post players combined for 14 rebounds, 9 blocks (4 from Tony Woods and 3 from Ty Walker), but just 9 points.
WSSU shot 32.2% and Wake Forest was really able to coast despite Al-Farouq Aminu getting into foul trouble and having a quiet 13 points and 4 rebounds. LD Williams had his best game of the year thus far, with 9 points, 5 assists and 3 rebounds.
Ari Stewart looked good too, dropping 13 and 8, but went just 1-5 from 3PT. The Deacs as a team shot above their season average of 31% from deep, connecting on 6 of 17.
The Rams were led by Brian Fisher, who had 12. Freshman Marcus Wells had 9 points, 6 rebounds and 2 assists.
Wake Forest will take their 4-0 start into their game with William & Mary on Saturday before heading to West Lafayette to take on Purdue.
