Men's Basketball Falls At MCLA, 76-65, For First MASCAC Loss
North Adams, MA --- Worcester State was defeated 76-65 this evening in MASCAC men's basketball action. The Lancers were paced by senior Frank Stephenson who scored a game-best 21 points while he added six boards, four helpers and four steals in the setback.
North Adams, MA --- MCLA senior Jamal Brown (Springfield, MA) had a season high 19 points and 11 rebounds to lead the Trailblazers past Worcester State 76-65 this afternoon in North Adams.
The win was MCLA's first in league play evening their record at 1-1 in the MASCAC (4-11), while the Lancers drop to 2-1 in conference play (5-7).
Worcester State senior Frank Stephenson (Fall River, MA) led all scorers with a game high 21 points.
MCLA controlled play much of the opening half, however the Lancers battled back to knot the score at halftime at 33-33.
The Trailblazers jumped out to a quick 9-2 advantage four minutes into the contest before Worcester rallied to tie the game at 17-17 with 8:13 left. The two teams then traded hoops the rest of the way en route to the halftime score.
In the second period, both teams were trading narrow leads until MCLA pulled away late.
With the score for equalled for the tenth time 60-60 at the 5:13 mark, WSU junior Monte Goodwin (Boston, MA/Belmont) jammed home a sophomore Robert Hunter (St. Louis, MI) inbounds pass for a slim 62-60 lead. MCLA would respond as senior Chris Harris (Dorchester, MA) drilled a three pointer to put the Trailblazers ahead for good.
The Harris trey would trigger a game closing 16-3 run over the final 3:19 to seal the win. Fourth-year Michael Young (Boston, MA/Minuteman Tech) was a perfect 6-6 from the free throw line to preserve the lead.
Alongside Brown in double figures for MCLA was Harris, who would finish with 15 points, five assists and four steals. Young would end his night with 13 points, while Vernon Cross came off the bench to add 12.
For Worcester, Stephenson added six rebounds, four assists and four steals. Hunter would finish with 16 points and Goodwin chipped in with 13.
The two squads continue MASCAC play on Tuesday evening at 7:30. Worcester State heads to Fitchburg State while MCLA entertains Westfield State.
Major Portions of Release Courtesy of MCLA Sports Information