Worcester State Grinds it Out for Fourth Straight Conference Win with Victory over AMCATs

Worcester, MA- The Lancers Men's Basketball team (6-10, 4-1) aimed to make it four conference wins in a row tonight as they hosted the newest conference addition, the Anna Maria AMCATs on Brissette Court.

Final

Worcester State: 87

Anna Maria: 81

How it Happened:

 After trailing by six at the break, the Lancers flipped the script with a 45-point second half, using physical play in the paint, timely shooting, and clutch defense to seize control when it mattered most.

Sophomore Joe Okla (Worcester, MA) was the heartbeat of the Worcester State attack, pouring in a game-high 24 points while grabbing eight rebounds and anchoring the Lancers inside on both ends. Okla was at his best down the stretch, scoring on put-backs, finishing through contact, and coming up with key rebounds to help seal the win.

The backcourt trio of junior Daniel Wondie (Seattle, WA), sophomore Jaydon Buckle (Windsor Locks, CT), and sophomore Camdyn Shoesmith (Bedford, MA) delivered a balanced and explosive effort. Wondie knocked down six three-pointers on his way to 21 points, spacing the floor and igniting multiple Lancer runs. Buckle added 18 points, including a timely three during a pivotal second-half swing, while Shoesmith chipped in 12 points, eight rebounds, and several hustle plays that shifted momentum.

Worcester State's composure showed late, as the Lancers executed in pressure moments at the free-throw line, finishing the game 16-for-19 from the stripe. Shoesmith and junior Dajon Burton (Brockton, MA) each knocked down key free throws in the final minute, while Okla capped the afternoon with a steal in the closing seconds to put an exclamation point on the win.

The Lancers also won the battle on the boards, holding a 35–34 rebounding edge and turning second-chance opportunities into crucial points throughout the second half. Defensively, Worcester State forced 15 turnovers, converting stops into timely scoring opportunities that kept Anna Maria from regaining momentum.

What's Next:

The Blue and Gold (7-10, 5-1) are back on the bus Wednesday with a trip to the Bears of Bridgewater State for a 7:30pm start.