Panthers top Tigers 68-59

Dalhousie (6-12) fell to the University of Prince Edward Island (10-8) with a final score of 68-59 on Saturday at Dalplex.

In the first quarter, Dalhousie trailed the Panthers 14-12. Gabe Damey was pivotal for Dalhousie, scoring twice with a layup and a jumper, contributing to the team's 12 points. Jayden Parker also added four points with two successful jumpers, the last one with an assist from Dolu Johnson, helping narrow the deficit as the half ended. Despite some turnovers and missed opportunities, Dalhousie managed to keep the score close heading into the next half.

In the second quarter, Dalhousie capitalized on key defensive plays and scoring sequences to maintain a competitive edge. Lydell Husbands-B executed a 3-pointer at 8:14, propelling Dalhousie to a 19-14 lead. Austin Thomson's active presence was notable with a successful layup and a free throw, contributing to Dalhousie's largest lead of six at 5:13. Nathaniel Titus further boosted the team's performance with a crucial 3-pointer, helping Dalhousie conclude the half with a narrow 31-31 tie after a back-and-forth with the Panthers.

In the third quarter, Dalhousie maintained a strong presence with Austin Thomson scoring a layup and a dunk, assisted by Caleb Stewart and Gabe Damey, respectively, helping the team briefly regain the lead at 35-34. Gabe Damey was instrumental, scoring two key layups at 3rd-09:22 and later tying the game at 39-39. Riley Stewart converted two free throws, pushing Dalhousie ahead 41-40, but the Panthers responded with a late surge, securing a narrow 45-41 advantage by the end of the half.

In the fourth quarter, Dalhousie's offensive efforts were highlighted by Gabe Damey and Lydell Husbands-B., who played significant roles in keeping the score competitive. Riley Stewart contributed with a key defensive rebound followed by a successful layup at the 5:03 mark, narrowing the Panthers' lead to 49-48. Despite a strong push, including Austin Thomson's multiple offensive rebounds and a layup, the team faced challenges in maintaining possession, ultimately allowing the Panthers to extend their lead in the final minutes.

Gabe Damey stood out for the Dalhousie basketball team, achieving a highlight statistic of six field goals made out of 12 attempts, contributing to his 15 points. Austin Thomson matched Damey in point production, also scoring 15 points with seven successful field goals from 13 attempts and adding six rebounds. Lydell Husbands-B. was noteworthy for his defensive performance, leading the team with three steals and also contributing nine points and seven rebounds. Caleb Stewart made a defensive impact with two blocks, while Riley Stewart led the team in rebounding with eight total boards, including seven offensive rebounds.

The Tigers head to Cape Breton next weekend for a two game road stand versus the Capers.