ST. LOUIS, MO – After a long road trip to Iowa, the Principia Men's Basketball team was back close to home for their third game in three days against University of Health Sciences. Despite two losses over the weekend to tough opponents, Principia made progress and was looking to get on the winning track in their matchup with UHSP. The Panthers came out on a mission from the beginning and raced out to a 25-10 lead. Although UHSP would cut the lead to as little as 3, the Panthers showed great resolve and were able to come away with the 79-67 victory.
Shemarri Miles started off the game hot for Principia and scored the opening 5 points of the game to get the Panthers off and running. Back to back threes from Isaiah Parker gave Principia a 23-10 lead, which was filled by a Jaquan Adams lay up to make the score 25-10. Adams would be the focal point for the Panthers all night long, and in the first half alone, he had 20 points and 9 rebounds. A lay up from Adams before the half made the score 38-29 in favor of Principia at the break.
The second half had a few runs by UHSP, but the Eutectics were unable to ever get over the hump. Bobby Alford III was huge on the boards and in the paint all second half, and seemed to be in the right spot every single time the Panthers needed a bucket. A three pointer from Charley Hoffman, followed by a lay up from Alford III gave Principia a 54-40 lead with 10 minutes left. The Panthers would hold this lead until a late run by UHSP cut it to 68-63 with 1:36 remaining. A lay up by Adams and free throws from Shemarri Miles sealed the game for Principia as they won 79-67.
Good to Know: Jaquan Adams led the Panthers with a massive double double as he finished with a career-high 32 points and 15 rebounds. Shemarri Miles added 18 points and 7 assists while Bobby Alford III had his first collegiate double double with 14 points and 14 rebounds. This was Principia's first win of the season, and moves their overall record to 1-2 on the year.
Up Next: The Panthers have their home opener against Grinnell College this Saturday at 1:00 pm in Hay Field House. Come out and support your Panthers as they look to start a winning streak here at home!
