Rush Returns, Grabs Control in Victory

Saturday’s victory over Nevada Las Vegas provided the greatest example why freshman JaRon Rush acquired the nickname “Noodles” from teammates in the first week of practice.

When Baron Davis missed both free throws with 14 seconds remaining, just after he had made two to provide a 70-67 lead, Shawn Marion grabbed the defensive rebound that would have allowed the Runnin’ Rebels plenty of time to get a three-pointer to force overtime.

But when Marion dropped the ball, Rush sneaked in between Marion’s legs and grabbed control.

Rush then went up for a layup with 10 seconds left and the insurance basket that made for the 72-67 final.

“It squirted between his legs and I just grabbed it,” Rush said. “I did what I do best.”

It came on the day he returned to the starting lineup after a two-game absence, as his back had improved and allowed him to practice more. Ryan Bailey went back to a reserve role.