Bucknell secured a hard-fought 70-67 victory over Loyola University Maryland at Sojka Pavilion, with Pat Curtin's 25 points leading the charge. The win marked a much-needed boost for the Bison, who improved to 6-15 on the season. Curtin's performance was complemented by Amon Dörries' 19 points and 6 rebounds, as the duo propelled Bucknell to a narrow triumph.
The first half saw both teams struggle to gain a significant advantage, with the score tied at 28-28 at the break. However, Bucknell managed to find their rhythm in the second half, with Curtin and Dörries combining for 31 points after the intermission. Despite a strong effort from Loyola Maryland's Jacob Theodosiou, who finished with 20 points, the Greyhounds were unable to overcome the Bison's balanced attack.
Theodosiou's performance was a highlight for Loyola Maryland, as he attempted to will his team to victory. Braeden Speed added 11 points and 5 rebounds for the Greyhounds, while Troy Cicero Jr. chipped in with 9 points. However, it was not enough to overcome the hosts' strong showing.
The game was marked by a series of runs, with Bucknell using a 10-2 spurt midway through the second half to take a 58-51 lead. Loyola Maryland responded with a 7-0 run to tie the game, but the Bison ultimately prevailed behind Curtin's clutch shooting. Jayden Williams added 8 points for Bucknell, including a crucial layup with just over a minute remaining to help seal the win.
With this result, both teams saw their tournament chances take a hit, albeit in different ways. As a Quadrant 4 game for both sides, the outcome will have limited implications on their respective resumes. Bucknell, currently ranked 335 in the net rankings, want to build on this win to improve their standing. Loyola Maryland, meanwhile, will aim to regroup and refocus after falling to 7-14 on the season.
The victory for Bucknell will be a welcome morale boost, but it will not significantly alter their tournament prospects. As a Quadrant 4 win, it will be viewed as a modest achievement, and the Bison must secure more substantial victories to bolster their resume. For Loyola Maryland, the loss will be seen as a missed opportunity to gain traction in their season. With both teams firmly entrenched in the lower tiers of the rankings, they must string together a series of wins to make a meaningful push for tournament consideration.