Both the Husson men’s and women’s basketball teams hosted a North Atlantic Conference playoff game Tuesday. Both came away with victories. The women defeated University Maine of Farmington 70-65, while the men toppled Thomas 88-56

The women were down 18-11 in the first half before scoring 19 straight points. Eagles head coach Kissy Walker said that run started on the defensive end. “Our defense played great in that stretch. We also made every shot, which is always good.”

The Beavers were never able to overcome the scoring run. They got within one point twice, but Amanda Gifford responded each time with a three pointer. She scored all 14 of her points in the second half. “We played hard in the second half. This could be the last home game of the year, so we wanted a win even more,” said Gifford.

Husson has won the past two league titles, and that experience paid off tonight with one clutch play after another. “The seniors came up big for us tonight,” said Walker. “Brianna (Hanscom) had some big rebounds, Gifford made some late game shots. We made the plays when we needed to.”

The Eagles were led by Gifford and Stephanie Comstock with 14 points each. Brianna Hanscom also chipped in with nine rebounds and six assists. Emma Morrison led UMF with 15 points, as the Beavers season ends with a record of 10-15.

While the women had a tough time winning, the men cruised, dominating every part of the game. The Eagles raced out to a 32-11 lead, erasing any chance for the Terriers to win. At the half the score was 45-17 and the Eagles finished the game rather comfortably. Head coach Warren Caruso said it was just another win. “Winning is a part of our program’s culture. We got some guys back from ineligibility and are coming into form at the right time.”

Eric Modica had 16 points to lead the Eagles in scoring. Husson was set on shooting three pointers, as they made eleven shots, good for 50%. Modica knew this was a statement game for the Eagles. “We beat them twice already, so we wanted to put them away early. It’s no secret that we are rivals. The rivalry fueled our game today.”

Husson took five charges in the first half, which ensured that the Terriers could never find any rhythm offensively. Thomas was also forced into difficult shots by the smothering Husson defense. The Eagles owned the boards, as they collected 43 rebounds to Thomas’ 26. The crowd also did not help a young Thomas squad, as the Husson White Out was a success. The rowdy crowd cheered from tip-off until the final buzzer sounded. Antonio Juco scored 12 for the Terriers, as they fall to 14-10 on the season.

The women improve to 16-10 and will face second place Colby-Sawyer. The men rise up to 14-11 and take on top seeded Castleton State, a team which they have beaten this season. Both games will be played on Friday and on the road.

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