Buccaneers Cruise Past Fisk in HBCUAC Crossover Opener
| Final | 1 | 2 | T | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Virgin Islands (2-2, 1-0) | 42 | 49 | 91 |
|
Fisk (TN) (5-10, 3-3) | 35 | 30 | 65 |
Wilberforce, Ohio, December 14, 2024 – The University of The Virgin Islands (UVI) Buccaneers men's basketball team showcased their dominance in a resounding 91-65 victory over Fisk University on Friday night. This conference game marked an important start to the season for the Buccaneers, as they opened conference play with a win at the Gatson Lewis Arena, a neutral site, on the Campus of Wilberforce University.
UVI (2-2, 1-0 HBCUAC) trailed early in the matchup, falling behind by as many as eight points. However, the team would battle back and trade baskets with the Bulldogs as the competition got intense midway through the first half. A 13-5 run in the final four minutes of the half sent the Buccaneers into the locker room leading 42-35.
Coming out strong in the second half, the Buccaneers continued their momentum and gradually pulled away from their opponents. Their dominance was evident in the statistical categories, with UVI leading in every aspect except for bench points. The team's largest lead of the night, a 28-point advantage, came with less than a minute remaining in the game.
The second half witnessed UVI pulling away boldly, thanks to strategic adjustments, stellar defense, and sharpshooting. "It was a back-and-forth game in the first half, both teams did a good job of scouting and preparing for each other and it showed early in the matchup," said head coach Kevin Sheppard. "In the second half, we made the necessary adjustments to combat what our opponents were throwing at us. We played excellent defensively and shot the ball well on offense. If we can play like that in every game we are in for a successful season."
All five starters for the Buccaneers scored in double digits. Jalil Langston and Amayoa'ah Phillips led the charge with 21 and 19 points, respectively. Edwin Solis also contributed significantly with a double-double of 16 points and 11 rebounds, highlighting his pivotal role in the win.
The Buccaneers are back in action on December 14 as they take on Voorhees University as they return to Gaston Lewis Arena aiming to build on their current momentum and improve their record in conference play.
