Sanders has 19 points, 11 rebounds to help Virginia Commonwealth hold off Rhode Island 82-80

Virginia Commonwealth edges Rhode Island 82-80

RICHMOND, Va. — Larry Sanders had 19 points and 11 rebounds and Virginia Commonwealth’s Rams staggered to an 82-80 win over previously unbeaten Rhode Island’s Rams on Wednesday night.

Virginia Commonwealth (5-1) missed the front end of three 1-and-1s in the final 28.1 seconds, while Rhode Island’s Marquis Jones missed a halfcourt shot at the buzzer.

Brandon Rozzell’s baseline jumper gave Virginia Commonwealth an 82-76 lead with 1:37 remaining. Akeem Richmond had a steal and layup to cut the lead to four with 56.8 seconds left and Will Martell’s jumper made it 82-80 with 4 seconds remaining.

Rhode Island (4-1) dominated the rebounding 36-22, grabbing 14 offensive boards. The teams combined for 43 turnovers — 22 by Rhode Island.

Rozzell finished with 17 points and Joey Rodriguez added a career-high 10 assists.

Martell led Rhode Island with 18 points.