INDIANA, Pa. — The Clarion Golden Eagles (12-14, 7-11 PSAC) faced a tough challenge against IUP (20-4, 14-3 PSAC), ultimately falling 96-75 at the Kovalchick Convention & Athletic Complex on Saturday.
Gavin Cote led with 22 points, hitting 4 of 8 from beyond the arc and a perfect 8-for-8 at the line.
Aydan Cunningham added 16 points, including three treys, and handed out four assists.
Jeremy Thomas II contributed 17 points on efficient 8 of 13 shooting and snagged five rebounds.
Ricky Goode-Wright was a defensive force with three steals and added eight points to the tally.
The game kicked off with Clarion seizing the momentum. Cunningham ignited the early lead with a sizzling 3-pointer and a swift layup, showcasing the team's energetic defense with six steals. The Golden Eagles demonstrated their prowess from the perimeter, with
Trey Nelson and
Gavin Cote finding success from downtown. However, the Crimson Hawks answered back with powerful inside play, surging ahead with a late scoring run in the half. By halftime, Clarion was down 41-32, staying in the fight despite battling turnovers.
In the second half, Thomas made his mark with dynamic drives, including an electrifying dunk and several layups, striving to narrow the gap. Cunningham continued to chip in with a late three-pointer, while Cote hit from deep to keep the offense lively. Despite their spirited efforts, the Crimson Hawks held their ground, extending their lead through sharp shooting and capitalizing on second-chance points.
The Golden Eagles fought valiantly on defense, snatching steals and grabbing key defensive rebounds to spark transition plays. Yet, the Crimson Hawks' steady scoring, particularly from the perimeter and charity stripe, proved too much, sealing the game at 96-75.
