Lancers Come Back in Second Half to Claim Victory over MCLA

Worcester, MA- With final seeding on the line and a senior day to celebrate, the final game of the Men's Basketball season (11-13, 8-3) versus MCLA was lined up to be an exciting meeting. A victory in the day's game would leave just a Salem State loss, to claim the second seed with the Lancers inching past with the tiebreak needed, in the MASCAC tournament that starts next Tuesday. A loss and Salem State win over Westfield would see the Lancers fall to a potential fifth seed scenario that would lead final seeding out of Worcester's hands.

In today's game the Lancers were also honoring seniors Suubi Nkugwa (Chelmsford, MA), Nate Bangandozou (Worcester, MA) and Brandon Goris (Bronx, NY).

Final

Worcester State: 74

MCLA: 69

How it Happened:

It was a back-and-forth contest between Worcester State and MCLA, with the two teams exchanging big baskets and defensive stops. Worcester State had the early lead, but MCLA responded with Quentin Gittens' good plays and big baskets, including a three. First-year Camdyn Shoesmith (Bedford, MA) was active on the glass with several offensive rebounds. Adding to the Lancers' court success were graduate student Sam Davies (Worcester, MA) and senior Brandon Goris (Bronx, NY), who responded with crucial shots to Gittens' big shots. MCLA would hold onto a narrow lead, sinking free throws and rebounds to scrape an edge on Worcester State. After the first half, Worcester State would find themselves down 30-35.

Worcester State had a strong second-half comeback led by standout performances from Goris and Davies, shot-by-shot Worcester State lessened MCLA's lead. Goris played a huge role on both ends of the court, playing key steals, layups, and a timely three-pointer to change momentum. Davies put in a few shots and layups and drove Worcester State ahead during the final minutes. MCLA struggled with maintaining its early advantage as turnovers and missed opportunities presented Worcester State a chance to retaliate. Jackson Brown and Quentin Gittens put in a crucial play for MCLA during the final minutes, but Worcester State's pressure defense and well-paced free throws sealed the game. Worcester State ends their final regular season game and Senior night with a win, 74-69.

What's Next:

Worcester State (12-13, 9-3) with the win, and Salem State win over Westfield State will now play on Tuesday night at 6pm. The final opponent will be released later tonight by the conference.