AFA freshman emerges after recent dry spell

LARAMIE, Wyo. • After starting his freshman year with three straight double-digit scoring games, Air Force's Taylor Stewart hadn't scored in the Falcons' past four games.

But Stewart regained his rhythm Tuesday against Wyoming. He was driving through the lane with authority and playing with confidence.

"I think the team has a sense of urgency so we just have to play to our instincts," he said.

"I had the lane a couple of times so I just took my opportunities."

Stewart scored nine points - his highest point total since Nov. 22.

"I went in there and played my game," he said. "Coach saw me playing well and he decided to keep me in. The way I play will relate to how many minutes I get."

Stewart wasn't the only Air Force freshman to contribute as Brandon Provost, Shawn Hempsey and Sammy Schafer combined for six points.

Senior Anwar Johnson said the freshmen are helping the team.

"They played extremely well for us - maybe one of their better games collectively," he said. "And I was proud of them. They showed a lot of fight and courage out there."
Hobbling about

Johnson hasn't been able to practice for two weeks because of a right foot injury, but he continues to play. He had 10 points in 36 minutes Tuesday.

"It's OK," he said after the loss. "It's sore, but I'm just going to continue to battle through it."

No love from charity

The Falcons managed to make it to the free-throw line nine times against the Cowboys, who went to the stripe often.

Wyoming's 26 made free throws and 35 free-throw attempts were the most by an Air Force opponent since UNLV went 31-of-41 on Feb. 24, 2003.

Coming into the game, the Cowboys led the nation in made free throw and were second in free-throw attempts.