On Friday, Stony Brook’s Men’s Basketball team traveled to Villanova. They gave a tremendous effort for the full 40 minutes, but unfortunately the Seawolves fell to the Wildcats 86-64. Although they lost by 22 points, the large deficit was deceiving. The Seawolves kept Villanova on their toes the entire game and gave an admirable effort.
The main factor that killed the Seawolves was Villanova’s size advantage. The Wildcats dominated inside, outscoring Stony Brook 40-12 in the paint and out-rebounding the Seawolves 31-15. 15 of Villanova’s 31 rebounds were on the offensive end and second chance opportunities really hurt the Seawolves. 6-7 forward Shane Clark and 6-8 forward Dante Cunningham were just too much in the paint, logging a combined 8 offensive rebounds as they scored a combined 39 points for the Wildcats.
Some notable Stony Brook players were Ricky Lucas and Mitchell Beauford who each scored 13 points. The most impressive player was Michael Tyree, a transfer to Stony Brook this year. In 16 minutes Tyree scored 18 points, knocking down three 3-pointers, and a perfect 7-7 at the free throw line. Coming off the bench, Tyree was a huge boost for the Seawolves and he established himself as a trusted long distance shooter for Stony Brook.
Although they were losing for the majority of the game, I was proud to be a student at Stony Brook University. The team showed heart and determination through out the entire 40 minutes, and it was obvious the players gave a 100% effort. The only complaint I had was the team didn’t try to take a charge to help neutralize their disadvantage in the paint. Otherwise, I felt the team played a great game, and I look forward to their future games especially when they play in the America East where the teams are on the same level, talent-wise, as Stony Brook.
Villanova is one the nation’s best team year after year, drawing some of best high school recruits available. Larry Brown, a hall of fame NBA coach and a current executive of the Philadelphia 76er’s was in attendance to watch the Wildcats begin their run at a Big East championship.
Stony Brook next plays host to Lafayette on Monday, Oct. 12 at 7:00 PM.
