HACKENSACK, N.J. - Snapping a three-game skid in Northeast Conference action, the Fairleigh Dickinson men's basketball team (3-18, 4-10 NEC) exploded for an 82-75 victory over Sacred Heart Saturday afternoon, fueled by the Knights' rookies who scored 71 of the team's 82 points.
How it Happened
- The game was FDU's from the jump with the Knights grabbing the opening lead on a jumper from freshman Oscar Berry. The Melbourne, Australia native and IMG Academy product would finish with a career-best 16 points, one of three in the Burgundy and Blue to reach double-digits. Shooting a team-leading .500 (4-8) from the field, Berry set a new personal-best with his four triples against the Pioneers.
- Sophomore newcomer Sébastien Lamaute went off for 24 points, three boards, two steals and an assist in just under 32 minutes on the floor for head coach Greg Herenda. Hailing from north of the boarder, Lamaute put on a show, hitting 10-of-17 from the field, finishing with 16 in the plus-minus summary.
- Anquan Hill looked unstoppable, providing three big-time dunks as the Philadelphia, Pa. native hit 21 points, eight rebounds, two steals and a lone assist.
- Of note, FDU juniors Devon Dunn and Brandon Rush saw limited minutes in the contest (coach's decision) with each playing just 6:26 on the hardwood in Hackensack. With 11 guys seeing action, all but four were rookies as the only returners who played were Dunn, Joe Munden Jr., Rush and John Square Jr.
Inside the Box Score
- FDU kept control of ball, turning it over just one fewer time than the Pioneers (FDU 10, SHU 11).
- Despite the seven-point differential at the final buzzer, the Knights' lead grew to as many as double (14 points) late in the second half. Herenda's side led Sacred Heart for 34:30.
- The Knights have split the season series with Sacred Heart having dropped the first meeting in Fairfield, 77-71.
Coach Herenda's Thoughts
Coming soon.
What's Next
FDU hits the road again, this time shipping up to 'almost' Boston, with two NEC matchups scheduled in New England, first facing Merrimack on Thursday, February 17, at 7 p.m. and Bryant on Saturday, February 19, at 1 p.m. Both games will air live on NEC Front Row. The Knights have just one home game remaining this regular season, a Thursday night tilt with Wagner on February 24 at 7 p.m. as the Knights celebrate
Sal Xheraj on Senior Night.
The 2021-22 men's basketball season is presented by
Bogota Savings Bank.
