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Kemp lifts Nevada into semis of WAC Tournament

Mar 8, 2007 - 10:14 PM LAS CRUCES, New Mexico (Ticker) -- Marcelus Kemp and the rest of his teammates enjoyed an easy afternoon.

Kemp scored 12 of his 17 points in the first half as No. 10 Nevada opened a big lead and cruised to an 88-56 rout of Idaho in the quarterfinals of the Western Athletic Conference Tournament.

After capturing 14 of 16 games in league play during the regular season to secure the top seed, the Wolf Pack (28-3) took their first step toward winning their third conference tournament title since 2004.

Nick Fazekas, the three-time Conference Player of the Year, contributed 10 points and 10 rebounds for the Wolf Pack, who hardly had to break a sweat in matching the school record for wins in a season set in 1945-46.

The Wolf Pack built a double-digit lead less than four minutes into the contest and shot 59 percent (20-of-34) in the first half en route to a commanding 49-24 advantage.

"We played very well to open the game and we were able to give some guys needed time and we got the win, so I'm pleased with that," Nevada coach Mark Fox said.

Kemp was the ringleader in the first half, when he made a pair of 3-pointers and went 4-of-5 from the field. The junior guard finished 5-of-8 overall from the floor, sitting down for good midway through the second half with the game well in hand.

"I think I played well and I'm just happy with the win," Kemp said.

Kemp also drew praise from Fazekas, who registered his 60th career double-double.

"He's one of the best offensive players we've got," Fazekas said. "He can score anywhere and he's great to have, I can kick it out to him when I get doubled down on."

David Ellis made all four of his shots and scored 11 points for Nevada, which will face Hawaii or Utah State in the semifinals on Friday.

Nevada shot 51 percent (36-of-70) and made 8-of-18 attempts from the arc.

Clyde Johnson scored 17 points to lead the Vandals (4-27), who made it to the quarterfinals with a 50-49 win over San Jose in the opening round Tuesday. Idaho went just 1-15 in conference play during the regular season.

"At times we were caught on our heels and when you make mistakes against a team like that they will make you pay," Idaho coach George Pfeifer said.