Panthers top Tigers 82-56

The Dalhousie Tigers fell to the UPEI Panthers 82-56 on Saturday at the Chi-Wan Young Sports Centre.

In the first half, Dalhousie's Andre Reid scored a layup early to tie the game at 2-2. Lydell Husbands-Browne contributed two successful free throws following consecutive fouls by the Panthers' players, narrowing the score to 5-4. Caleb Stewart made a notable impact with a successful tip-in at 3:12, though Dalhousie ended the half trailing 19-8 after the Panthers extended their lead with a fast-break 3-pointer by Hugo Bermejo.

The second half saw the Panthers maintaining a strong presence on the court, with their team accumulating 26 points to Dalhousie's 11. Key moments for Dalhousie included Gabe Damey's defensive rebound leading to a fastbreak layup at 7:25, and Giovanni Ajiamah contributing with a layup at 1:10 and two successful free throws later in the half. Despite these efforts, the Panthers capitalized on turnovers and extended their lead, highlighted by a 3-pointer from Kyree Thompson at 1:30, ultimately reaching a 26-point lead by the end of the half.

In the third, Dalhousie's Caleb Stewart contributed significantly, scoring a layup at the start and a 3-pointer at 5:40 to cut into the deficit. Andre Reid added key defensive plays, including a block and a steal, leading to a fast-break layup. Jayden Parker also made an impact with a defensive rebound and assist, while Drake Kucharik closed the half with a 3-pointer assisted by Stewart. Despite their efforts, the Panthers maintained a steady lead throughout the half, countering with consistent scoring from multiple players.

In the fourth, Dalhousie outscored the Panthers 18-17, with Nathaniel Titus contributing significantly by scoring three 3-pointers and a fast-break layup. Gabe Damey and Mustafa Abokar also made key plays, including a 3-pointer and a steal, respectively. Despite Dalhousie's efforts in the final minutes, the Panthers maintained a lead, with Owen Smith making critical shots to keep the score in their favor.

Nathaniel Titus stood out for Dalhousie with 14 points, making five of six baskets, including three 3-pointers. He also grabbed eight rebounds, leading the team in both scoring and rebounding. Andre Reid contributed defensively with two blocks, while also adding seven points and two assists. Drake Kucharik was notable for his defensive efforts with a team-leading two steals, coupled with six points. Caleb Stewart also made an impact with seven points and a block, hitting three of his four attempts.

The Tigers return to the court at Dalplex on Friday, Janaury 24 at 8pm.