Norfolk State (20-10, 10-3 MEAC) claimed a commanding 69-50 victory over UMES (8-19, 3-10 MEAC) on Monday evening. With one game remaining in the regular season, the win gives Norfolk State at least a share of the MEAC regular season title.
The Spartans started fast, accumulated a two-point lead into the break. They didn’t let up in the second half either, increasing their lead to as large as 21 points.
Jamarii Thomas led the way for Norfolk State, putting up a game-high 21 points. The transition game was a big factor in the Spartans’ success, as 14 of the team’s points came on the fast break. Efficiency metrics evaluated the offense at an average of 1.04 points scored per possession on 54% true shooting.
UMES was led by Troy Hupstead, who recorded 14 points and 12 boards. The Hawks shot 17-of-44 from the field and 6-of-17 from behind the arc. A major factor in the loss was their subpar offensive efficiency. They scored just 0.76 points per possession on 48% true shooting.
- Norfolk State outscored UMES in the paint 32 to 22
- UMES’s 50 points marked a new one-game low for the season
- The game had four lead changes and five ties
Each team has its next game on March 7. Norfolk State takes on a confident Howard squad at Joseph G. Echols Memorial Hall, where the Spartans will look to earn another win at home. Meanwhile, UMES will try to turn things around when they host Delaware State at the Hytche Center.
Gameday AI content is produced using Artificial Intelligence technology powered by Boost Sport before being approved and published by HBCU Gameday.