Men's Basketball | 1/16/2026 10:04:00 PM

This evening, the York University Lions men's basketball team traveled to Oshawa to take on the Ontario Tech Ridgebacks. 

The opening quarter was a back-and-forth battle, with both teams exchanging baskets and defensive stops. Jordan Nelson set the tone early for York, attacking the paint and knocking down key free throws to keep the Lions in front. Ontario Tech answered, preventing York from creating any real separation. Defensive pressure on both sides kept the pace tight, but the Lions edged ahead late, closing the quarter with a 13–12 lead. 

York continued to control the pace in the second quarter, using strong defensive pressure to limit Ontario Tech's scoring opportunities. Kevin Okeke and Nickele Harris made their presence felt inside, while Jackson Mackinnon-Metcalf knocked down a key three to help the Lions maintain their edge. Despite brief scoring runs from the Ridgebacks, York responded with timely stops and efficient finishes. The Lions headed into halftime holding an 18–12 advantage. 

Ontario Tech began chipping away at York's lead coming out of halftime, outscoring the Lions 16–13 in the frame. Despite York getting key baskets from LaDainian James and Harris, Ontario Tech found momentum through perimeter shooting and trips to the free-throw line, gradually narrowing the gap. York managed to limit further damage defensively, but Ontario Tech's push trimmed the lead to 44–40 heading into the fourth. 

York tightened up defensively in the final frame, responding to Ontario Tech's late push with timely baskets and stops. Jeremiah Kwarteng and James helped steady the Lions with key scores, while Okeke added crucial points at the line. Despite Ontario Tech cutting the margin to one midway through the quarter, York closed strong to secure a 61–57 road win. 

LOOKING AHEAD:
Taking their third win this season, the Lions stay on the road to face the Queen's Gaels on Saturday, January 17, with tip-off set for 6:00 pm.