BOWIE, MD --Tairell Fletcher collected 24 points and Caleb Simmons added 22 and the Fayetteville State men's basketball team knocked off the Lock Haven (PA) Bald Eagles 87-66 at A.C. Jordan Arena Friday.
Lock Haven's record fell to 0-1, despite a strong performance from their leading scorer, Eli Washington. Washington scored 17 points and contributed with 3 assists and 1 steal.
Fletcher and Simmons' stellar scoring performances led the Broncos (1-0) in the contest. Fletcher tacked on six rebounds and Simmons added nine rebounds and two steals. Ezekiel Cannedy also helped out with 13 points.
The Fayetteville State offense was very productive from three point land, pouring in nine threes on 25 attempts. Fletcher was the most prolific shooter for the Broncos, draining four treys in the contest.
The Broncos did a great job disrupting Lock Haven (PA) shots in the contest, coming away with five blocks. Anthony Latty led the way individually for the Broncos with two rejections.
Fayetteville State started strong, building a 27-17 lead before going on an 8-0 run with 6:50 left in the first half, extending their advantage to 35-17. Although they lost some ground, they still entered halftime with a solid 45-29 lead. The Broncos maintained their momentum in the second half, highlighted by a 9-0 run capped by a jumper from Simmons, pushing their lead to 56-31 with 17:40 remaining. Despite a late push from the Bald Eagles, Fayetteville State comfortably secured an 87-66 victory. The Broncos effectively capitalized on Lock Haven's mistakes, turning seven turnovers into 11 points.
Fayetteville State showcased their prowess from beyond the arc, sinking nine three-pointers in their game against Lock Haven. The Broncos' defense was formidable, limiting the Bald Eagles to just 39.4% shooting from the field and a mere 15% from three-point range on 27 attempts. Fayetteville State never trailed in the second half, maintaining control throughout the game. They also dominated the boards with a 40-35 rebounding edge and recorded five blocks. Tairell Fletcher led all scorers with 24 points, while Caleb Simmons contributed 22 points and grabbed a team-high nine rebounds, sealing a comprehensive victory for the Broncos.
The Broncos will face Clarion in day 2 of the Bowie Stat Classic at 2pm tomorrow, Saturday, November 9th.
