Heartbreaking Loss for the Buccaneers vs. Rust College
| Final | 1 | 2 | T | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Virgin Islands (3-4, 2-2) | 32 | 40 | 72 |
|
Rust (MS) (3-8, 2-5) | 31 | 43 | 74 |
Wilberforce, Ohio, December 18, 2024 – The University of the Virgin Islands men's basketball team experienced a heartbreaking loss after being edged out by the Rust Bearcats in the final seconds of a 74-72 ballgame at the Gaston Lewis Arena in Wilberforce, Ohio during the HBCUAC Crossover.
The game kicked off with both teams in high gear, leading to a neck-and-neck first half, with the Buccaneers slightly ahead 32-31 at halftime. As the game progressed, the intensity remained high, and the conference foes did not disappoint, showcasing quality basketball from both sides.
The two teams battled fiercely in the second half as each team's offensive firepower was on display, with both teams scoring at will, leaving fans at the edge of their seats in a matchup that would have a thrilling end. The game would come down to one final possession, but the clock would expire before the Buccaneers could get a shot off at the basket.
Amayoa'ah Phillips was the standout performer for the Buccaneers, scoring an efficient 24 points on 9-of-13 shooting from the field. Phillips is currently averaging 24.6 points per game over his last three appearances. Sophomore guard Chad Molloy also contributed significantly with 13 points along with seven rebounds and four assists.
As a team, the Buccaneers shot over 42.6% from the field and 35% from the three-point range. However, it was not enough to secure the victory. The bench struggled to contribute offensively as only 13 points were scored by the second unit.
"I feel we didn't play one of our better games this evening," said head coach Kevin Sheppard. "We came out flat, and Rust came out with high energy. It was a very disappointing loss. We had opportunities to win the game at the end, and we just didn't make the plays. Fatigue played a factor, but that is not an excuse. We will get a much-needed break after playing four games in five days, but we have to lock back in because we have three consecutive conference matchups coming up at the beginning of January that will be pivotal for us."
The Buccaneers, now standing at a 3-4 overall record and 2-2 in conference play, look ahead to their next challenge against Stillman College on January 3 at Birthright Alumni Hall in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. The team aims to regroup and refocus during the break to secure victories in the crucial upcoming games.
