The York University men's basketball team battled the Algoma Thunderbirds on Friday night at Tait McKenzie Centre, looking for their second win of the year and their fourth straight against Algoma dating back to 2019.
The Lions were aiming to build much-needed momentum for the remainder of the season, while the the Thunderbirds came into the contest still searching for their first win with an 0–8 record.
Algoma struck first as Logan Whitmell opened the scoring for the Thunderbirds. York quickly responded when Gillian Mavoungou evened the score. The opening quarter was tightly contested, as both teams battled aggressively on defence and on the glass. York enjoyed a five-point edge at the end of the first, leading 22–17.
The Lions found their rhythm in the second quarter. Jeremiah Kwarteng ignited the offence with a pair of three-pointers within the first three minutes of the frame. Though Whitmell attempted to swing momentum back with a layup for Algoma, York maintained control. Jayden Jack added a key layup as the Lions went on a 19-6 run to end the quarter, and entered halftime in front, 58–36.
After the Thunderbirds began the half on a 9-4 run, Mavoungou drained a three-pointer that brought the lead back to 20, 65-45. While Algoma's defence slowed the Lions scoring surge and fought their way back into the game, York still controlled the pace of play and maintained a comfortable lead, heading into the final quarter up 70–57.
The visitors pushed hard in the fourth in an attempt to close the gap. After the Lions went up 80-61, the Thunderbirds went on a miraculous 20-1 run that was capped by a Biong Deng four-point play, tying it at 81. However, in the final minute, Malakai Ayres-Olson delivered a clutch jumper to retake the lead. The Lions earned a pair of free throws from LaDanian James two more from Kwarteng, as they closed the game on a 6-0 run
York held on for an 87–81 victory, earning their second home win of the season while gaining valuable momentum moving into the winter term. Whitmell had 22 points and eight rebounds for the Thunderbirds, while, and Kwarteng had 24 points and eight rebounds, as well as six assists, in the win.
LOOKING AHEAD:
The Lions will take on the Toronto Varsity Blues on Friday, Jan. 9. Then, on Saturday, Jan. 10, York will host TMU Bold on Community Night at Tait McKenzie Centre. All players wearing their team jerseys will be permitted to enter free of charge. Tip-off for that one is also set for 8:00 pm.
