LOUISVILLE, KY – The Principia Men's Basketball team hit the road to Louisville on Tuesday to take on Spalding University and looking to avenge their loss to the Golden Eagles in Elsah earlier this season. The Panthers came into the game in control of their own postseason destiny, as winning their final two games would clinch the final spot in the SLIAC Tournament. Spalding came into the game tied for first in the conference with an 11-5 record. Principia played valiantly throughout the game and continually put pressure Spalding, but ultimately, the Panthers could not overcome the Golden Eagles' tough defense as they fell 59-52.
The first half was a defensive and physical battle with Spalding taking a 25-17 lead into halftime. The second half would provide more offense, but the Panthers were unable to get the stops needed to secure the victory. A lay up from Jaquan Adams cut the lead to 4 with 15:30 left in the game. After the Golden Eagles lead got back up to 10, a steal and lay up by AJ Byrd with 2:58 remaining cut the lead down back to 3 at 51-48. This would be as close as the Panthers would get as Spalding free throws would seal the game.
Good to Know: Principia was led by seniors Jaquan Adams and AJ Byrd. Adams had a double double with 16 points and 15 rebounds, while Byrd finished with 12 points and 4 rebounds. The Panthers are now 5-12 in SLIAC play, but all they need to do is win their final game on Saturday to clinch the last spot in the SLIAC Tournament.
Up Next: The Eureka Red Devils come to Elsah on Saturday for the Panthers' Senior Day at 3:00 pm. Come to Hay Field House by 2:45 pm for the Senior Day ceremony for our four seniors: Jaquan Adams, AJ Byrd, Shemarri Miles, and Jake Erickson. Please come out and pack the stands for your Panthers as they play their final home game of the season!
