After a tough fought matchup against the York Lions, the Lancers men's basketball team lost their home opener 76-73.
After a slow start for the blue and gold, the Lancers mounted an exciting comeback in the fourth quarter, resulting in multiple lead changes with the Lions ultimately escaping with the win.
Game Stats
Chris Poloniato and rookie Thomas Kennedy led the Lancers scoring with 14 points each, with Kennedy also grabbing four rebounds, which is down from his game average of nine.
Damian Persaus put up 10 points of his own after an aggressive game that resulted in him garnering five personal fouls.
Game Flow
The first quarter saw Windsor take a quick lead that they maintained for most of the first frame until the Lion's strong defence and success from beyond the arc resulted in a nine point run for York to end the quarter up by one.
Strong defensive play on both ends of the court kept the game tight, with neither team giving up a lead greater than three points for the rest of the first half.
Poor shooting from the field and strong Lions defence saw the Lancers fall behind, with York immediately going on a run that gave them a ten point lead.
Early in the fourth quarter the Lions seemed to have the edge on the blue and gold until Owen Henderson made two back to back baskets from beyond the arc, starting an impressive comeback that resulted in an exciting final minutes for fans.
After poor shooting in the first three frames, the Lancers seemed unable to miss in the fourth. the blue and gold continued to rain threes with Chris Poloniato making three of his own giving the Lancers their first lead since the first half.
Strong play on both sides saw a back and forth that resulted in the Lions being up by four points with less than 10 seconds left in the game. As fans were heading out Lucas Orlita hit an off balanced three, making it a one point game.
However the Lions were able to hold off the Lancers attack to secure their 76-73 win.
Up Next
The Lancers will host the Queen's Gaels on Breast Cancer Awareness Day on Saturday November 3, 2018 at 8:00pm at St. Denis Centre.