Colgate's trip to Reitz Arena proved successful as they outpaced Loyola University Maryland 86-80, led by a well-rounded performance from Jalen Cox. The junior guard amassed 17 points, 8 rebounds, and 6 assists, guiding the Raiders to their 12th win of the season. This non-conference matchup saw both teams exchange blows, but ultimately, Colgate's depth and cohesion prevailed.
The first half was closely contested, with Colgate taking a slim 33-32 lead into the break. Loyola Maryland's Braeden Speed was a force to be reckoned with, scoring 20 points and grabbing 10 rebounds on the night. However, the Raiders' supporting cast, including Andrew Alekseyenko and Sam Wright, made significant contributions to keep their team ahead. Alekseyenko's double-double, consisting of 16 points and 15 rebounds, was particularly crucial in securing the win.
As the second half unfolded, Colgate began to pull away, fueled by a 53-point outburst. The Raiders' offense, which had been clicking all game, found its rhythm, and they built a lead that Loyola Maryland couldn't overcome. Despite a strong showing from Speed and 19 points from Sebastien Emenalo, the Greyhounds fell short. Emmett Adair added 13 points for Loyola Maryland, but it wasn't enough to counter Colgate's balanced attack.
The victory for Colgate comes as a quality win, albeit against a lower-ranked opponent. As a Quadrant 4 win for the Raiders, it doesn't significantly bolster their tournament resume but does help maintain their current standing. With a net ranking of 201, Colgate still has work to do to become a serious contender for an at-large bid. On the other hand, this loss for Loyola Maryland, also a Quadrant 4 game, doesn't severely damage their already slim tournament hopes, but it does highlight the challenges they face with a net ranking of 341.
In the end, Colgate's ability to outexecute Loyola Maryland late proved decisive. The Raiders' win serves as a reflection of their resilience and teamwork, characteristics that will be essential as they navigate the remainder of their schedule. While this result may not have major implications for the tournament landscape, it underscores the importance of consistency and strong performances, even against lesser opponents. For Colgate, this win helps solidify their position, but they must continue to accumulate quality victories to strengthen their postseason chances.