Notre Dame, IN. The Holy Cross College men’s basketball team hosted St. Xavier University this afternoon at McKenna Arena. The Saints defeated the Cougars 72-70. With the win, men’s basketball improves to 14-10 overall and 8-6 in the Chicagoland Collegiate Athletic Conference.
Both teams had a strong offensive output in the first half. Midway through the half, Ja’Mare Washingtonscored on a post move to give the Saints a 27-26 lead. The Cougars were able to battle back and take a 45-42 lead at halftime.
The Saints defense tightened up in the second half and Storm Cook would provide the offense, as he hit back to back three pointers to give Holy Cross a 60-52 lead with 11 minutes to play. Saint Xavier tied the game 70-70 with 1:21 left, but a Ja’Mare Washingtonsteal would lead to a Storm Cook fast break layup to give the Saints a 72-70 lead. The Cougars had time for one last play, but were unable to score, as Holy Cross would go on to win.
Freshman Storm Cook scored a team-high 20 points, while draining five triples. Seniors Ja’Mare Washington recorded a double-double with scoring 16 points and grabbing 13 rebounds. Travon Brackett added 11 points and six rebounds, while Jordan Gaines scored ten points and a team-high four assists. Holy Cross shot 48% from the field and 38% from behind the arc.
Men’s basketball will be back in action when they host Judson University Wednesday, Jan. 31. Tipoff is set for 7:30pm.