Loyola Maryland's Push Falls Short Against Colgate's Red Raid

In a thrilling contest that came down to the wire, Colgate University edged out Loyola University Maryland 101-98, a three-point margin that belied the closeness of the game. Despite being the lower-ranked team, Loyola Maryland made a strong push in the second half, outscoring Colgate 48-36 to make it a game that was very much up for grabs. Ultimately, however, the Raiders' superior shooting and execution proved to be the difference.

Colgate's performance was marked by a dominant individual effort, which helped the team overcome its lower NET ranking of #208. Loyola Maryland, meanwhile, has been struggling this season, with a NET ranking of #330.

Jalen Cox's performance was a driving force behind Colgate's victory, as he led the team in scoring with 38 points. His efficiency from the field was impressive, converting 11 of 15 field goal attempts and 2 of 3 three-pointers, while also making 14 of 15 free throws. He also contributed with 11 rebounds and a block. Cox's well-rounded stat line showcased his ability to dominate the game on multiple fronts.

Sam Wright and Ben Tweedy also made significant contributions to the Colgate offense. Wright scored 18 points, but his lack of rebounding and assist numbers was somewhat mitigated by his 3-for-3 performance from the free throw line. Tweedy, meanwhile, provided a spark with 16 points and 6 assists, while also grabbing 5 rebounds. His ability to distribute the ball effectively helped Colgate maintain possession and create scoring opportunities.

Jacob Theodosiou's 25 points were a bright spot for Loyola Maryland, as he shot efficiently from the field and beyond the arc. However, his four assists were a modest output, and his limited rebounding (two boards) was a departure from his typical contributions on the glass. Despite his strong scoring performance, Theodosiou's overall impact was not enough to swing the outcome in his team's favor.

Emmett Adair's 23 points and nine rebounds were a double-double, but his scoring efficiency was hindered by a 9-21 shooting performance from the field. His 3-8 mark from three-point range was also a concern, as he is typically a more reliable threat from beyond the arc. Adair's lack of playmaking (zero assists) also limited his team's offense, making it difficult for Loyola Maryland to sustain momentum.

The remainder of the roster for both teams largely adhered to their season averages.

The pre-game prediction of a Colgate victory by 5.6 points ultimately proved correct, as the Raiders edged the Greyhounds by three points. While the final margin was narrower than anticipated, the outcome was a reflection of the consistent performance that Colgate has displayed this season.

Colgate's dominance on the glass and from beyond the arc were key factors in their victory. The Raiders' ability to secure 6.7% of available rebounds on the night, a figure significantly higher than their season average, allowed them to maintain possession and capitalize on scoring opportunities. Meanwhile, their 29.6% three-point shooting, a mark higher than their season average, proved to be a crucial component in their offense, as they were able to stretch the Loyola Maryland defense and create space for open shots. These two factors, combined with a strong overall shooting performance, ultimately proved too much for the Greyhounds to overcome.

Colgate's victory over Loyola Maryland serves as a crucial win for the Raiders, who now boast a 17-12 record. Although this was a Quad 4 game, it provides some momentum heading into the final stretch of the season. Colgate's NET ranking of #208 remains a concern, but a strong finish could potentially improve their NET enough to secure a low-seeded bid in the NCAA Tournament. Conversely, Loyola Maryland's loss in a Quad 3 game is a significant blow to their NCAA Tournament hopes, and their NET ranking of #330, combined with a 0-3 record in Quad 1 games and 0-2 record in Quad 2 games, likely seals their fate as a First Four team, if they receive an at-large bid. Loyola Maryland's season now hangs precariously in the balance, with a narrow window for redemption in their remaining games.