BALTIMORE, Md. (Nov. 16, 2024) -- The Morgan State Bears returned to Hill Field House on Saturday for a non-conference clash against the New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT). Despite facing a 7-point deficit at halftime, the Bears rallied in the second half to secure an 81-69 win, showcasing their resilience and strong team play.
Morgan started with an early lead, but NJIT quickly took control, capitalizing on efficient shooting to build a 14-point advantage. The Bears struggled to find their rhythm offensively in the first half, shooting just 39 percent from the field, while NJIT shot 45 percent.
The Bears' bench provided valuable support, contributing 12 points, and they worked hard on the boards, pulling down 11 offensive rebounds. However, they only scored five second-chance points from those opportunities.
Despite the offensive struggles, Morgan kept the game close, with key contributions from Rob Lawson and Kameron Hobbs, who hit critical 3-pointers, and Wynston Tabbs, who played strong defense and grabbed rebounds to prevent NJIT from extending their lead. Will Thomas hit a 3-pointer in the final seconds to trim NJIT's lead to 37-30 at the halftime break.
In the second half, Morgan State took control, building a strong lead with effective offensive and defensive teamwork.
Thomas led the Bears with 18 points (6-13 FG) led six Bears in double-figures. Daniel Akitoby finished with 13 points, nine rebounds and two blocks, while Tabbs, Simpkins, Rob Lawson, Kiran Oliver and Amahrie Simpkins scored 11 points each.Â
Efficient shooting, strong rebounding, and a relentless defensive effort allowed the Bears to build and maintain their lead, ultimately securing a second half comeback victory.
The Bears will play two away games in the Buffalo Classic, starting with a matchup against North Carolina A&T State University on Nov. 20 at 7 p.m. in Greensboro, N.C. They will then face the University at Buffalo on Nov. 22 at 7 p.m. in Buffalo, N.Y.
The Bears will return home for a Nov. 24 game against Towson University at 4 p.m. at Hill Field House in Baltimore, Md.
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ABOUT MORGAN
Morgan State University, founded in 1867, is a Carnegie-classified high research (R2) institution offering nearly 140 academic programs leading to degrees from the baccalaureate to the doctorate. As Maryland's Preeminent Public Urban Research University, and the only university to have its entire campus designated as a National Treasure by the National Trust for Historic Preservation, Morgan serves a multiethnic and multiracial student body and seeks to ensure that the doors of higher education are opened as wide as possible to as many as possible. For more information about Morgan State University, visit www.morgan.edu.
