CASTINE, Maine – The Husson University men's basketball team continued its strong start to North Atlantic Conference play with a 73–59 road victory over Maine Maritime Academy on Friday night at Smith Gymnasium.
Husson (5-2, 4-0 NAC) set the tone early with defensive pressure and second-chance opportunities, building a 26–15 lead at the end of the first half. The Eagles controlled the glass throughout the opening 20 minutes, creating extra possessions and limiting Maine Maritime (3-4, 3-2 NAC) to just 15 first-half points.
Freshman Christian Smith sparked the Husson offense early, knocking down a late triple that helped push the lead into double digits before the break. Seniors Eric Ahlers and Gil Matondo also provided steady production in the first half as Husson entered the locker room firmly in control.
The Eagles opened the second half with an offensive surge, stretching the lead behind efficient shooting and balanced scoring. Smith hit three more three-pointers in the second half to 15 points, while Matondo went to work inside, scoring consistently in the paint and finishing the night with a team-high 16 points. Husson shot 19-for-30 from the field in the second half, turning a comfortable halftime lead into a commanding advantage.
Sophomore Connor Heald added 10 points and provided key buckets during stretches when Maine Maritime attempted to rally. Ahlers filled the stat sheet with 14 points, nine rebounds, and four assists, while junior Andre McCauley chipped in 10 points and three assists off the bench. Husson finished the night with 40 rebounds and 17 assists, showcasing both physicality and ball movement.
Maine Maritime was led by Jack Banks with 19 points and seven assists, while Marcus Schade added 15 points. The Mariners were unable to overcome Husson's rebounding edge and perimeter shooting, as the Eagles knocked down seven three-pointers and scored 34 points in the paint.
Husson will look to carry the momentum forward as conference play continues, including a big matchup tomorrow afternoon at the University of Maine at Farmington at 2 p.m. in a battle of the last two unbeaten teams in NAC play.
