Tigers win season opener

HALIFAX, Nova Scotia — The Dalhousie Tigers secured a narrow 81-76 victory over Acadia Axemen at Dalplex on Tuesday. Dalhousie's strong performance in the paint, scoring 36 points, played a crucial role in maintaining their lead.

Dalhousie began the first half by establishing an early lead with a three-pointer from Ukiah Best, assisted by Lydell Husbands-Browne. The team continued to build momentum with a layup from Austin Thomson, pushing the score to 5-2. Effective defensive plays, including a block by Thomson and multiple steals, helped maintain their edge. Riley Stewart contributed significantly with two three-pointers and a pair of free throws.

As the half progressed, Dalhousie extended the lead to 18-11 with scoring contributions from Jayden Parker and Giovanni Ajiamah. Despite the Axemen's attempts to close the gap, Dalhousie finished strong with Caleb Stewart scoring six consecutive points, including a layup at the 50-second mark. The half closed with Dalhousie leading 25-18.

Dalhousie opened the second half with a strong defensive stance, managing a critical steal by Lydell Husbands-Browne that helped maintain momentum. Despite the Axemen briefly taking the lead with a three-pointer from Malko Young, Dalhousie responded effectively with free throws from Riley Stewart and a layup by Spencer Riar that kept the score tight.

Midway through the half, Dalhousie capitalized on defensive rebounds and turnovers, regaining the lead with consistent free-throw shooting, including crucial points from Isaiah Graham-Roache. As the half progressed, Dalhousie's advantage grew with a late surge, highlighted by a layup and a last-second free throw by Lydell Husbands-Browne. The half concluded with Dalhousie extending their lead to 46-39, setting a confident tone for the rest of the game.

Dalhousie opened with a strong defensive stance, maintaining their lead through pivotal plays. Husbands-Browne contributed both on offense and defense, securing a critical dunk off a steal to push Dalhousie ahead at 51-48. Thomson's layup and Stewart's quick steal and score sequence further extended Dalhousie's lead, as they capitalized on turnovers and defensive rebounds.

The Axemen responded with a scoring effort to close the gap, highlighted by Gabe Davignon's late jumper to bring the score to 55-56. Despite the Axemen's attempts to overtake, Dalhousie's defense held firm, with James Murphy securing a defensive rebound as the half concluded. Dalhousie maintained a narrow 56-55 lead going into the final moments.

Dalhousie opened by extending their advantage with a 3-pointer from Riar at the 8:50 mark, pushing the lead to five. This was followed by a layup from Ajiamah, which contributed to Dalhousie building a 10-point lead by the 8:04 mark. The Axemen attempted to respond but struggled with turnovers, allowing Dalhousie to maintain their upper hand.

Midway through, Dalhousie's defense held firm with blocks from Husbands-Browne, while Riar added key free throws to widen the gap further. Despite the Axemen's efforts to close the deficit with a three-pointer from Ryan Regault, Dalhousie sustained their lead.

In the closing minutes, Dalhousie secured the win by converting crucial free throws, including two from Caleb Stewart, to finish the game with a final score of 81-76.

Spencer Riar led the team with 19 points and a double-double, adding 10 rebounds, and was perfect from the free-throw line, converting all eight attempts. His outstanding performance earned him the title of player of the game. Husbands-Browne contributed with 17 points, nine assists, and four steals, showing versatility on both ends of the court. Riley Stewart delivered 14 points, including two three-pointers, and collected three rebounds. Thomson added 10 points on 5-for-7 shooting and pulled down five rebounds to support the frontcourt effort.

The Axemen host the Tigers in a re-match in Wolfville on Saturday.