East A District Champions!!

-Middletown, NY 

From the the opening tip-off, SUNY Orange found themselves in a tight, defensive matchup with SUNY Niagra for the opportunity to go to the NJCAA National Tournament.  After going back and fourth for the first two minutes, neither team was able to put any points on the board. Niagara went 0 for 3 on their first three offensive possessions with the Colts stopping them with two steals and one blocked shot. 

So. Guard Marquis Gill scored the games first points after hitting two free throws.  There were four lead changes in the first seven minutes, as the Colts called the game's first timeout after evening the score at 17.  The Colts came out of the timeout and managed to score two unanswered baskets before the Thunderwolves responded with a three pointer at the 9 minute mark allowing SUNY Niagara to retake the lead 25-24.

With 6.1 second left in the first half, Marquis Gill gave the Colts the lead after hitting a deep three pointer to make the score 37-35 at the half.  In the first twenty minutes of play, there were a total of nine different lead changes and four ties as both teams played excellent defense.

To start the second half, the Thunderwolves came out and scored the first five points giving them their first lead of the second half. Much like the first half, both teams displayed tough defensive pressure and a fast paced offense game. There were a total of six different lead changes and three ties in the first five minutes of the second half.  Both teams played like the Regional Champion and NJCAA Nationally ranked teams that they are.

This back and forth, competitive game included a total of 21 different lead changes and 10 ties. During the last four minutes of the game there were just two points scored by each team.  With 2:25 left in the game, the SUNY Orange Colts retook the lead for the last time with the score at 68-67.  The defensive minded Colts would not allow another basket in the game.

This tight championship game showcased an exciting finish.  With 4.6 seconds left on the clock, SUNY Niagara called their last time out and drew up an inbounds play from under their own basket.  The contested shot came off of the rim and was secured by Orange as time ran out.  Orange came away with the 68-67 victory over Niagra becoming the East A District Champions for the second time in the last three years.  With the victory Orange will advance to the NJCAA National Championship Tournament next week in Danville, IL. 

-Top Performers- 

So. Guard #1 Marquis Gill led the way for the Colts scoring 25 points on 10-23 shooting. Gill finished the game with five rebounds, three assists and one steal. 

So. Guard #3 Daniel Lans finished with 13 points on 5-10 shooting, six rebounds, four assists, three steals and a block.

So. Forward #24 Mathew Shea finished with 13 points on 6-13 shooting, five rebounds and one assist. 

Fr. Guard #11 Johnny Floyd led the Colts in rebounds, finishing with nine rebounds to go along with his nine points.