Tigers beat Huskies 74-71

HALIFAX, Nova Scotia — Dalhousie Tigers narrowly edged past Saint Mary's Huskies with a 74-71 victory at the Homburg Centre. Dalhousie maintained its lead in the second half, with a notable 44 rebounds contributing to the win.

Dalhousie began the first half by trailing the Huskies after an initial scoring surge from the home team. Despite early challenges, Dalhousie leveled the score with contributions from Lydell Husbands-Browne's free throws and a layup by Isaiah Graham-Roache. Jayden Parker's dunk further closed the gap, bringing the score to 9–15.

A three-pointer by Ukiah Best and subsequent free throws by Graham-Roache allowed Dalhousie to take a brief lead at 16–15. Riley Stewart extended this lead with a jumper, putting the visitors ahead 18–15. However, a late 3-pointer from Jasha'jaun Downey in the final seconds meant Dalhousie ended the half trailing 20–18.

Dalhousie started the second half with a shift in momentum, as Husbands-Browne connected on a 3-pointer at 9:19, assisted by Spencer Riar, to take a 21–20 lead. Riley Stewart continued to contribute with a layup and a 3-pointer, helping maintain the team's competitive edge.

Despite the Huskies responding with key baskets, Dalhousie consistently countered, including a crucial jumper by Husbands-Browne at 0:28 to tie the game at 38. Jayden Parker's dunk with 24 seconds left, assisted by Best, secured a narrow 40–39 advantage as the half closed. Dalhousie outscored Saint Mary's 22–19 in this stretch, maintaining a slim lead heading into the next phase of play.

Dalhousie started the third half strong with Caleb Stewart's 3-pointer at 9:09, assisted by Husbands-Browne, reclaiming the lead. Giovanni Ajiamah extended the advantage with a layup shortly thereafter. Despite turnovers and fouls allowing the Huskies to momentarily take the lead midway through, Dalhousie responded with strategic plays.

Caleb Stewart hit another crucial 3-pointer at 3:41 to regain the lead. Husbands-Browne's free throws and Riar's layup at 1:01 helped secure the momentum. A significant dunk by Husbands-Browne at the 40-second mark pushed Dalhousie's lead to five points. The half concluded with Dalhousie leading 57–54.

Dalhousie began the final half maintaining a narrow lead. Caleb Stewart contributed early with a defensive rebound and assisted Spencer Riar for a 3-pointer, which extended the lead to 62-56. Riley Stewart added a jumper, keeping Dalhousie ahead, and the team capitalized on turnovers with key steals from Husbands-Browne and Ajiamah.

As the half progressed, Dalhousie extended their advantage to eight points at 72-64 following a layup by Ajiamah, assisted by Riley Stewart. The Huskies closed the gap with a late push, narrowing the difference to one point at 72-71. However, Ukiah Best secured the win by sinking two free throws with four seconds remaining. The game concluded with Dalhousie winning 74-71.

Husbands-Browne scored 21 points and recorded eight rebounds, leading the team with his offensive output. Caleb Stewart added 13 points and collected eight rebounds, showcasing efficiency by converting 5 of 9 field goals, including 2 of 4 from beyond the arc. Parker contributed with six points and distributed five assists, helping facilitate the offense. Riley Stewart scored nine points and added four rebounds, while also blocking a shot and making a steal.

The Tigers return home on Saturday to host the UNB REDS