TIgers fall to Axemen

WOLFVILLE, Nova Scotia — Acadia defeated Dalhousie 89-55 at Stu Aberdeen, with Dalhousie struggling to connect from beyond the arc, shooting just 15.4 percent on 3-pointers.

The first half began with Dalhousie facing early pressure from Acadia, who quickly established an 11-point lead, their largest of the half, by the 3:44 mark. The Tiger responded with a pair of layups from Giovanni Ajiamah and Austin Thomson, narrowing the deficit to five points midway through the half. Despite efforts from Dalhousie's defense, highlighted by a steal from Lydell Husbands-Brow in the final minute, the team trailed 18-11 at the end of the first half.

The Tigers opened the second half looking to close the gap, with Ukiah Best and Spencer Riar contributing early scoring to trim the Axemen's lead. However, Acadia responded with a 13-point advantage marked by a series of layups and a three-pointer from Samou Brayan Kone, establishing their largest lead at 28-15 with 6:14 remaining.

Dalhousie continued to battle, as Caleb Stewart hit a key three-pointer and Jacob Christie added a jumper, helping to keep the team within reach. In the closing seconds, Lydell Husbands-Brow connected on a crucial three-pointer at the buzzer, narrowing the deficit to 40-30 by the end of the half.

The Tigers began the second half with a defensive rebound by Spencer Riar, followed by his successful jumper to cut into the Axemen's lead. Dalhousie showed momentary resilience with Caleb Stewart's steal and Lydell Husbands-Brow's assists, facilitating key baskets for the team. However, Acadia maintained control throughout the half, extending their lead with consistent scoring in the paint.

Despite efforts from Dalhousie's Riley Stewart and Isaiah Graham-Roache, who contributed a layup and a three-pointer respectively, the Axemen's scoring proved too formidable. The half closed with the Axemen leading 62-44, maintaining a strong advantage into the final stretch.

Dalhousie opened the final half with a strong effort, as Riley Stewart scored a layup assisted by Spencer Riar, cutting into the Axemen's lead in the early seconds. However, the Axemen responded with a series of successful plays, including a three-pointer from Robbie Grant, which extended their lead.

Dalhousie's Giovanni Ajiamah added a point from the free-throw line, followed by a layup from Jayden Parker. Despite their efforts, the Axemen maintained control, capitalizing on turnovers and defensive rebounds to keep their advantage.

The half closed with RaShawn Ferguson hitting a three-pointer, but the Axemen held firm, finishing with a 27-point quarter. The game concluded with the Axemen leading 89-55, securing a decisive victory.

Riley Stewart led the team with 10 points, converting five of his 14 attempts from the field. Husbands-Brow distributed a team-high 10 assists and added six rebounds. Riar posted eight rebounds while contributing six points and two assists. Caleb Stewart recorded six points and seven rebounds, providing a solid presence on the boards.

The Tigers face STFX next in a home and home, with the X-Men hosting the Tigers on Wednesday at 8pm.