The University of Windsor Lancers men's basketball team earned a 79–69 home victory over the Algoma Thunderbirds on Saturday (Feb. 14) night at the Toldo Lancer Centre.
The Lancers honoured the graduating seniors of Yohann Sam, Matt Aebersold, David Madamidola, Emanuel Otong, and Ryan Wasylyshyn prior to tonight's game.
GAME FLOW
Windsor trailed 18–15 after the opening quarter but responded with a strong 29–24 second frame to take a 44–42 lead into halftime. The Lancers continued to build momentum in the third, outscoring Algoma 16–13 and sealed the win with a 19–14 fourth quarter to close out the 10-point victory.
Windsor's balanced offensive attack and presence on the glass proved to be the difference. The Lancers shot 41.9% from the field and 30.0% from three-point range, while converting 18-of-26 free throws. They also controlled the rebounding battle 41–30, including 29 defensive boards, limiting Algoma's second-chance opportunities. Despite committing 15 turnovers, Windsor capitalized on timely scoring runs in the second half to maintain control.
STATS
Yohann Sam led all scorers with a game-high 28 points, knocking down five three-pointers and adding five rebounds and four assists. Luke Grace was dominant inside, finishing with 24 points on an efficient 9-of-11 shooting and grabbing eight rebounds. Bronson Chambers chipped in 10 points and four assists off the bench, while Emanuel Otong contributed seven rebounds and three assists in the win.
Algoma was led by Jean-Luc Cubahiro's 18 points and eight rebounds, with Chance Beaudoin-Skerritt and Shalom Anyikwa adding 13 points each. The Thunderbirds shot 40.6% from the floor but struggled from beyond the arc at 22.7%, which allowed Windsor to extend its lead late in the game.
UP NEXT
The Lancers finish the regular season with a 12-10 (W-L) record. Playoff dates and times will be announced in the coming days.