REDS overpower Axemen as first half winds down

REDS overpower Axemen as first half winds down
Box Score
November 22, 2024

WOLFVILLE, N.S. — The UNB REDS cruised to a decisive 100-67 victory over the Acadia Axemen on Friday at Stu Aberdeen Court.

Glen Cox (Scotsburn, NS) led Acadia with 24 points, shooting 11-for-18 from the field, including one three-pointer. Briawne Wilson (Toronto, ON) contributed 13 points, going 5-for-6 from the free-throw line, along with four rebounds and three assists. Donovan Reid (Lower Sackville, NS) added 11 points and seven rebounds, while Kyle Munro (Timberlea, NS) chipped in with nine points and a team-high six assists.

UNB's offense was spearheaded by Matthias Muscroft (Sussex, NB), who poured in 30 points on 10-for-12 shooting, including an exceptional 8-for-9 from beyond the arc. Marcus Barnes (Kitchener, ON) added 18 points, shooting 7-for-13 and hitting three three-pointers, while also dishing out four assists. Eden Otshudi (Hamilton, ON) was a key playmaker with eight assists and eight points, and Javordo Mitchell (Woodbridge, ON) added 13 points and six rebounds. Brandon Laryea (Crawley, UK) rounded out the Reds' contributions with six points, six rebounds, and seven assists.

UNB took control early, with Muscroft's sharpshooting from long range helping the Reds build a 16-point lead in the first half. Acadia struggled offensively, managing only 14 points before halftime, while UNB's defense limited their opportunities.

The Axemen mounted a brief rally in the second half, led by Cox and Munro, who each hit three-pointers to spark a 23-15 run. Wilson's strong free-throw shooting and rebounding also contributed to Acadia's improved performance, but UNB capitalized on turnovers and maintained a comfortable lead thanks to consistent scoring from Barnes and Mitchell.

Muscroft continued his hot hand in the second half, hitting multiple three-pointers as UNB extended their advantage. Laryea added key plays on both ends of the court, and Barnes sealed the Reds' dominant performance with late scoring from both the field and the free-throw line. Acadia's defense had no answer for UNB's efficient shooting and balanced attack.

UNB will now head to Halifax to face Saint Mary's tomorrow, while Acadia is off for a week as they next prepare to host STFX on Saturday, November 30 in their final game of 2024.