The post Markus Howard era started with a bang. And just as everyone predicted, Theo John carried the torch forward. He dominated the first half with nine points, seven rebounds, and four blocks. He clearly set the tone for the team, especially defensively as Marquette held Arkansas-Pine Bluff to just 18 first half points.
The 50-18 halftime lead allowed Marquette the ability to coast in the second half. The big lead, and also less Theo John, led to a less intensive defensive effort in the second half (39 points given up), but the offense kept rolling. Six Golden Eagles hit doubles figures as Marquette finished off Arkansas-Pine Bluff 99-57.