X-Men top Tigers in 2025 opener

The Dalhousie Tigers fell to the St. Francis Xavier University 91-77 on Wednesday at Dalplex.

In the first half, Dalhousie opened with a jumper from Jayden Parker, assisted by Riley Stewart, to take an early lead at 9:13. Gabe Damey, who was named player of the game for the Tigers, contributed notably with two successful 3-pointers, helping to close the gap to 20-12 at one point. Despite Dalhousie's efforts, including Caleb Stewart's free throws and a late jumper, the team trailed 26-17 at the end of the half.

Dalhousie faced a challenging second half against the X-Men, with the latter establishing a lead early on. Gabriel Marcotullio contributed significantly for Dalhousie, scoring a 3-pointer at 7:45 and following up with a layup after a steal. Caleb Stewart and Riley Stewart each added points with successful jumpers and layups, respectively. Despite these efforts, the X-Men maintained their advantage, ending the half with a 26-21 lead over Dalhousie.

In the second half, Dalhousie scored 17 points against the X-Men's 18, with Gabe Damey making notable contributions, including two 3-pointers at 8:45 and 4:02. Jayden Parker added a jumper at 8:00, and Giovanni Ajiamah scored a layup at 1:35. Despite efforts from Riley Stewart, who contributed with a free throw and a block, Dalhousie trailed by the end of the half.

In the closing minutes, Dalhousie scored 22 points while the X-Men put up 21 points. Jayden Parker opened the scoring with a layup at the start of the half, assisted by Andre Reid. Gabe Damey was active on both ends, securing multiple defensive rebounds and adding a key layup at 9:20. Caleb Stewart and Riley Stewart each contributed with crucial layups, with Riley Stewart adding another with assistance from Andre Reid at 1:10, narrowing the gap. Despite late efforts, including a layup by Giovanni Ajiamah with 20 seconds remaining, Dalhousie was unable to close the deficit.

The Dalhousie basketball team features several standout players based on their performance in recent games. Gabe Damey emerged as a key contributor, scoring a game-high 25 points while hitting 9 of 19 baskets, including 4 3-pointers. He also contributed 8 rebounds and 5 assists. Jayden Parker provided a solid offensive presence with 16 points, making 8 of his 12 basket attempts, and added 3 rebounds. Caleb Stewart also made an impact with 10 points and 3 rebounds, while contributing a steal defensively. These players have shown their ability to lead the team in scoring and contribute across multiple statistical categories.

Dalhousie holds a record of three wins and eight losses. The X-Men lead with an impressive ten wins and one loss in conference play.

The Tigers and X-Men will travel to Antigonish on Friday for a re-match.