When George Mason’s name was called on Selection Sunday, it turned more than a few heads (including DCist’s). They were included over major conference clubs like Cincinnati and Florida St., and conference foe Hofstra, who had just beaten the Patriots in the CAA semis. They would also be playing without Tony Skinn, their second-leading scorer, who was suspended one game for punching a Hofstra player.

Friday night in Dayton, Ohio, they proved they belonged, coming out swinging and never letting up in a 75-65 win over 2005 semifinalist Michigan St.

The Patriots held a small lead for most of the game, but the Spartans went up one with about six minutes remaining. It appeared that the time had come for the hardened, veteran team to put away the precocious newcomer.
Mason had other ideas, going on a 10-0 run. From there — despite missing 12 of 16 free throws at one point down the stretch — the Patriots remained in control, getting the defensive stops they needed to win.

George Mason had four players in double figures in Skinn’s absense. Folarin Campbell hit all eight of his shots and scored 21 points, and Will Thomas added 18. Jai Lewis and Lamar Butler had a baker’s dozen apiece. For the game, the Patriots shot better than 60 percent.

Mason moves on to face North Carolina in the second round on Sunday. The young Tar Heels were 69-65 victors over Murray St. on Friday. This is actually a very winnable game for Mason. One key will be keeping power forward Tyler Hansbrough — an All-ACC selection as a freshman — off the offensive glass.

AP Photo taken by Al Behrman.