In a thrilling non-conference showdown, the Norwich University men's basketball team faced off against Husson University at the Ocean Center in Daytona Beach, Florida. Despite an early lead and valiant efforts, Norwich ultimately fell to Husson with a final score of 83-68. Key players such as Owen Liss, Sharif Sharif, and Kohlby Murray showcased impressive performances, but the Eagles managed to secure their advantage in the second half. The Cadets will look to bounce back in their next game against Penn College on December 29th.

Game Details: Norwich vs. Husson in Daytona Beach

In the heart of Daytona Beach, Florida, under the bright lights of the Ocean Center, the Norwich University men’s basketball team engaged in a competitive match against Husson University on Saturday evening. This encounter marked the first of two consecutive games for Norwich before the New Year. The game was part of the Florida Sunshine Shootout, a tournament that brought together several college teams from across the country.

The Cadets started strong, taking an early 4-0 lead thanks to baskets by Mohammed Kanneh and Kohlby Murray. They managed to extend this lead to five points on three separate occasions, the last of which came from a jumper by Owen Liss, making it 11-6. However, Husson responded swiftly with a 6-0 run, shifting the momentum in their favor.

Norwich reclaimed the lead briefly with a three-pointer by Jalen Olivero and six crucial points from Sharif Sharif off the bench. Yet, Husson gradually erased Norwich’s advantage with a decisive 9-0 run, securing a lead they would not relinquish. At halftime, the Cadets trailed by just three points, 38-35, after a buzzer-beating layup by Murray.

The second half saw Husson expand their lead to double digits within four minutes. Although Norwich mounted a late rally, led by Riley Severy and Daniel Bogre, time ran out on their comeback attempt. Liss, who led all scorers with 21 points, also contributed significantly with nine rebounds and two blocks. The Cadets finished the game shooting efficiently from the free-throw line, converting 14 out of 18 attempts.

The Norwich team will have little time to rest as they prepare for their next game against Penn College on Sunday, December 29th, at 6:00 PM. This upcoming match promises to be another exciting contest, especially given the historical connection between Norwich and Penn College’s coach, Geoff Hensley, a former standout player and Athletic Hall of Famer at Norwich.

From a journalist’s perspective, this game underscores the importance of maintaining consistent momentum throughout the entire match. Norwich demonstrated great potential with their early lead and efficient free-throw shooting, but Husson’s resilience in the second half proved too much to overcome. The Cadets’ upcoming game against Penn College will be a critical test of their ability to adapt and recover from setbacks, setting the stage for their return home in January.