AMHERST, N.Y. — The Golden Eagle men's basketball team played a tight game against one of the best teams in the nation on Saturday, with Clarion (3-3, 0-0 PSAC) falling to third-ranked Daemen (8-0, 0-0 ECC) 74-64 at Lumsden Gymnasium on Saturday. Clarion's fastbreak play contributed 18 points, but the Wildcats' dominance in the paint with 60 points secured the home victory.
The game began with Clarion trailing early against the Wildcats, as the home team quickly established a presence in the paint. Clarion responded with a three-pointer from
Justice Easter, narrowing the gap. Shortly after,
Aydan Cunningham's back-to-back dunks energized the team, cutting the deficit to five points.
Midway through the half, the Golden Eagles kept pace with Daemen through effective defensive plays, including a block and a steal by
Jeremy Thomas II. Clarion's bench contributed significantly with 12 points, maintaining pressure on the Wildcats. Despite several turnovers, Clarion managed to keep the score tight, trailing 39-33 at the end of the first half.
The second half began with the Wildcats extending their lead early, capitalizing on a turnover by
Justice Easter and converting a layup. Thomas responded effectively, scoring a layup and securing free throws to keep his team competitive. Thomas was a standout performer, scoring a season-high 18 points, converting 8-of-9 free throws, and recording four steals. Despite a series of turnovers, the Golden Eagles managed to cut into the Wildcats' lead through consistent scoring from the free-throw line and strong defensive efforts, including a steal by
Michael Moore.
Midway through the half, the Golden Eagles' offense found momentum with
Cam Crockett contributing through fast-break plays and free throws, reducing the deficit. However, Daemen maintained their advantage with efficient scoring in the paint, supported by Justin Hemphill's assists. Clarion's defensive pressure resulted in several steals, yet the Wildcats' consistent scoring preserved their lead.
As the half closed, Clarion made a late push with crucial baskets from
Gavin Cote and
Trey Nelson, but Daemen's scoring consistency ensured they held a 74-64 lead at the end of the game.
Trey Nelson scored 11 points, shooting 5-of-7 from the field and contributing three assists. Cunningham added eight points and secured three rebounds while also blocking one shot. Cote posted eight points and grabbed two rebounds in a solid performance.
