Stewart scores 16 in loss to X-Men

HALIFAX, Nova Scotia — STFX overcame an early deficit to defeat Dalhousie University 83-74 at the Dalplex, with the X-Men pulling ahead in the second half and maintaining the lead through the second half.

Dalhousie started strong in the first half with Riley Stewart's opening jumper setting the pace. Caleb Stewart extended this early momentum with a 3-pointer, assisted by Lydell Husbands-B., contributing to a 7-2 lead. Dalhousie maintained their advantage through key defensive plays, including multiple steals, and effective scoring in the paint.

The half remained competitive as the X-Men responded with a series of plays to draw level at various points. However, Dalhousie regained the lead through a layup by Jacob Christie, ensuring they closed the half ahead. The home team led 14-12 at the end of the first half.

Dalhousie started the second half by closing an early gap, with James Murphy hitting a critical 3-pointer at 7:28, assisted by Caleb Stewart, to regain the lead. Ukiah Best contributed by scoring consecutive layups, supported by assists from James Murphy, pushing Dalhousie ahead 23-20 midway through the half.

The X-Men responded by narrowing the margin, but Jacob Christie provided crucial free throws, extending Dalhousie's lead to 28-24 with just over four minutes remaining. However, the X-Men seized momentum in the closing minutes, embarking on a scoring run to capture the lead. Despite a late 3-pointer from Lydell Husbands-B., Dalhousie ended the half trailing 40-34.

Dalhousie started the second half with a scoring drive led by Isaiah Graham-Roache, who quickly added four points with a layup and a jumper, reducing the deficit. Midway through the half, Caleb Stewart contributed with a layup and a 3-pointer, briefly giving Dalhousie a two-point lead at 46-44 with 6:25 remaining.

However, the X-Men responded with a strong run, regaining the lead and extending it. Despite a 3-pointer from Ukiah Best and a layup by Caleb Stewart, Dalhousie struggled to match the X-Men's scoring pace. The half ended with the X-Men holding a 60-53 lead, as Dalhousie's efforts to close the gap fell short in the final minutes.

Dalhousie started the second half aiming to reduce the deficit, with Spencer Riar contributing early free throws and a layup assisted by Lydell Husbands-Brown. Despite these efforts, the X-Men maintained their lead, responding with a 3-pointer from Tariq Armstrong and extending their advantage.

As the half continued, Caleb Stewart added a layup to keep Dalhousie within striking distance. However, the X-Men capitalized on their opportunities, including a layup from Koat Thomas, to maintain their lead. Despite a strong defensive play by Austin Thomson, who blocked a shot and secured a rebound, Dalhousie struggled to gain significant ground.

In the closing minutes, Jayden Parker and Austin Thomson each scored layups, while Ukiah Best contributed a late 3-pointer. However, the X-Men managed to keep their lead intact, ultimately closing out the half with an 83-74 victory over Dalhousie.

Lydell Husbands-Brown filled the stat sheet with seven assists and five steals, contributing significantly on both ends. Caleb Stewart led the scoring with 16 points, including two 3-pointers, to anchor the offensive effort. Ukiah Best added 12 points, shooting efficiently by converting five of his seven attempts. Spencer Riar was active on the defensive end, collecting eight rebounds and two steals.

The Tigers hit the road next weekend to face the Memorial Sea-Hawks