Finley shows range in Rocket City Classic
HUNTSVILLE- Alabama headlined the Rocket City Classic Tuesday night at the VBC but before the Tide took the floor Tanner Finley and his UAH teammates put on a show in front of 6,745 fans, a record for a basketball game at the VBC.
The 2014 Bob Jones graduate stroked four three-point baskets as UAH won 85-78 over Shorter.
UAH trailed briefly in the second half but Finley got hot and hit three from behind the arc as UAH went ahead to stay.
Dalton Barkley had 4 points in 15 minutes of playing time (Photo by Charles Edgeworth)
“We have played in big arena’s before,” Finley said. “We have experience shooting in these bigger arenas and once you’re out there basketball instincts take over its like shooting on any other goal.”
Now a redshirt junior, Finley has seized his opportunity this season and moved into the starting lineup at the three position (wing) in UAH Coach Lennie Acuff’s offense. He said that he will stay for his senior year.
“The five-year plan is the UAH way. That is the way Coach Acuff works. That redshirt year we use it to develop the younger guys and learn the system. It’s good to have the Bob Jones guys on the team.”
Dalton Barkley, a 2015 Bob Jones graduate, is getting a lot of playing time coming off the bench.
Chase Fiddler, currently playing at Bob Jones, signed with UAH on Nov. 15.
Finley is majoring in Business Management with a concentration in Supply Management. He has made UAH Academic Honor Roll the last 2 seasons.
“I’m really enjoying being at UAH. The university is really growing. It set the record for largest freshman class the last 3 years. The professors challenge the students but are willing to step outside their comfort zone to help you. Lots of new building and always new things going on.”
UAH basketball is on a run of unprecedented success under Coach Lennie Acuff who is in his 21st season as head coach. He has had 18 winning seasons and the team is now 8-3 this season.
Against Shorter UAH had balanced scoring as the Chargers shot over 50% in both the first and second half. Justin Ward led UAH with 25 points, Finley had 12.
“I play within the system and hunt my shot,” said Finley. “Everybody on the team can score.”
Finley is averaging 9 points and 4 rebounds a game. His season high is 14 against Trevecca Nazarene.
Finley’s father, Madison Mayor Paul Finley was in attendance as was Huntsville mayor Tommy Battle.
“Growing up here I came to Globetrotters games and come to UAH hockey games and Havoc games but this was the first time playing basketball here. It was awesome playing in this arena. I’m glad we won and it felt great to hit some shots,” Finley said.
