Tale of Two Halves for Lakers Against Conference Opponent
CANANDAIGUA, N.Y. - The Lakers had an efficient first half, shooting 40% from three-point range and knocking down 6 shots from beyond the arc. They carried a 42-35 lead into halftime. However, after the break, the Cougars went on a 9-0 run, taking a 44-42 lead. Despite the Lakers' late effort, the Cougars continued to build on their lead, winning the conference matchup 84-72 on the Putt Moore Court.
Jaquan Shears (Rochester, N.Y./Monroe) continued his hot start to the season, leading the team with 19 points on an efficient 9-for-14 shooting. Shears would collect 4 rebounds, dish out 2 assists, and swipe 2 steals in an all-around game. High school and now college teammate Davion Jones (Rochester, N.Y./Monroe) also had a strong game, adding 10 points to his tally. A few hustle plays by the freshman guard led Jones to a team-high 8 rebounds. His 2-for-4 performance from beyond the arc was crucial for the Lakers' offense as they battled with the Cougars who were nationally ranked #13 in the preseason.
Freshman Kyle Slykwa (Waterloo, N.Y./Waterloo) added 5 assists, 9 rebounds, and 2 blocks to his tally while Andrew Edwards-Ferrell (Rochester, N.Y./U Prep) added 7 points, 8 rebounds, and 5 assists to the stat sheet in an impressive all-around performance. Off the bench, Marvin Reed Jr. (Durham, N.C./Faith Assembly) provided an efficient scoring boost with 8 points, including a perfect 2-for-2 from three-point range. Sophomore Slayde Huntley (Herrin, IL/Herrin) also had a strong shooting night, scoring 9 points on 3-for-4 shooting from three-point range.
Despite the second-straight loss, the Lakers have remained competitive against Region III competition and will look to avenge their conference matchups later in the season. Up next for the team is a home matchup with the visiting Corning Community College Red Barons this Saturday, November 18th at 3 PM on the Putt Moore Court.
