Sea-Hawks beat Tigers 84-72
Isaiah Graham-Roache scored 13 points and collected seven rebounds, adding two steals.
ST. JOHN'S, Newfoundland — Dalhousie fell to Memorial University 84-72 in a hard-fought matchup at The Works Field House. Dalhousie's effort included 28 points in the paint, but they were unable to overcome the Sea-Hawks' 10 three-pointers.
Dalhousie began the first half with effective scoring in the paint, contributing eight points, while also receiving a strong contribution from the bench with ten points. The team gained a narrow lead early at 7:11, but the Sea-Hawks responded with effective perimeter shooting, including four successful 3-pointers. Despite Dalhousie's efforts, including a timely 3-pointer by Ukiah Best near the close of the half, Memorial maintained a consistent scoring pace.
Dalhousie managed to keep the game close with significant contributions from Lydell Husbands-Browne, who scored a key layup and provided an assist. However, the Sea-Hawks capitalized on free throw opportunities late in the half, extending their lead. As the half concluded, Memorial held a 26-20 advantage.
Dalhousie opened the second half by narrowing the gap, igniting a scoring drive led by Riley Stewart's layup and Austin Thomson's successful free throw, cutting Memorial's lead to 31–25. A pivotal moment occurred when Ukiah Best sank a three-pointer at 8:04, trimming the deficit further. Dalhousie continued to press, with Isaiah Graham-Roache's jumper bringing the score to 43–44.
As the half progressed, Caleb Stewart's jumper at 0:54 gave Dalhousie their first lead of the half, 45–44. However, the Sea-Hawks managed to regain a slim advantage through free throws, closing the half with a 46–45 lead over Dalhousie.
Dalhousie initiated a momentum shift in the second half by erasing a deficit with a series of key plays, including a 3-pointer by Ukiah Best and a dunk from Austin Thomson, establishing a five-point lead at 5:26. The defensive efforts were highlighted by two blocks and four steals, but turnovers hindered sustained control.
The Sea-Hawks then mounted a response, closing the gap with a layup from Andrew Robinson, followed by a crucial steal and layup in the final moments by Andre Ash. As the half concluded, Memorial edged ahead, leaving Dalhousie trailing 60–57.
Dalhousie began the latter part of the second half with strong defensive efforts, highlighted by Spencer Riar's rebound and Lydell Husbands-Browne's block, as they aimed to close the gap with the Sea-Hawks. The team capitalized on free-throw opportunities, with Husbands-Browne going 6-for-8 from the line, keeping the score competitive.
Despite these efforts, the Sea-Hawks' shooting accuracy from beyond the arc, including key three-pointers from Andrew Robinson and Javian Downey, extended their lead. Dalhousie, unable to match this scoring pace, saw their chances diminish as the half progressed. The half concluded with Memorial leading 84-72, resulting in a final score of Memorial 84, Dalhousie 72.
Isaiah Graham-Roache scored 13 points and collected seven rebounds, adding two steals to his performance. Best led the team with 14 points, converting three 3-pointers and making five field goals. Husbands-Browne posted 12 points and secured seven rebounds, making 8 of 10 free throws. Riley Stewart contributed nine points and grabbed five rebounds, while also dishing out two assists.
