In a thrilling match hosted in Elon, North Carolina, the Elon Phoenix secured a decisive 71-60 victory over the Northeastern Huskies. Star player Nick Dorn delivered a standout performance, scoring 19 points to help his team clinch the win on Saturday night. This significant victory not only boosted Elon's season record to 15-8 but also reinforced their standing in the Coastal Athletic Association with a 6-4 conference record.
Dorn's performance was marked by his tenacity and skill, evidenced by his solid free-throw shooting—completing 11 out of 13 attempts. His overall stats included shooting 3 for 10, with notable accuracy from the 3-point range, where he went 2 for 6. Complementing Dorn's performance was TK Simpkins, who contributed 15 points, including impeccable accuracy from the foul line, making 6 out of 6 attempts.
Another highlight of the game was the remarkable dual-role displayed by Matthew Van Komen. He matched a team-high of 14 points, attributed to a highly efficient 6 for 10 shooting from the field. Van Komen's defensive prowess was also on display, securing 14 rebounds and contributing four crucial blocks, thwarting Northeastern's attempts to score.
On the opposing side, the Northeastern Huskies showcased admirable effort. William Kermoury and Rashad King both registered 15 points each, providing the team with a competitive edge. Collin Metcalf added another 10 points for the Huskies, along with two strong blocks. Despite a courageous fight, their efforts fell short against Elon's strategic gameplay.
The first half was a nail-biter, concluding in a 28-28 tie, with Van Komen pacing Elon in scoring with 10 points before halftime. The lead shifted at the beginning of the second half when Simpkins' free throw placed Elon ahead at 31-30—a lead they maintained for the remainder of the game.
Looking forward, both teams are gearing up for their next matches on Thursday. Elon is set to face Campbell, while Northeastern will take on Hofstra in an away game. As the season progresses, both teams will be eager to refine their strategies and perform at their best to improve their standings in their conference.