LA PLUME, Pa.- The Keystone College men's basketball team edged SUNY–Environmental Science and Forestry, 95–93, in a tightly contested nonconference matchup Wednesday night.
The Giants held a narrow 39-37 lead at halftime following a first half that featured nine lead changes. Keystone established an early inside presence behind Demetrius Thomas (Atlanta, Ga./North Clayton) and Ahmodrion Jones (Wilmington, Del./Delcastle Tech), while Kamdyn Ayers (Fort Lauderdale, Fla./Western) helped facilitate the offense with strong ball distribution.
SUNY ESF remained within striking distance thanks to efficient shooting and a strong free throw performance from Antonio Franco, who scored 12 first-half points.
The second half turned into an offensive battle as both teams combined for 112 points. The Mighty Oaks shot 74.2 percent from the field after the break and used timely three-point shooting to stay in contention.
Keystone countered with balanced scoring and strong execution in the half court, maintaining composure during multiple momentum swings.
Ayers and Jones led Keystone with 20 points each. Ayers added nine assists and seven rebounds while shooting 7-of-11 from the field and 6-of-7 from the free throw line. Jones shot 6-of-13 from the floor and converted 8-of-9 attempts at the stripe.
Jden Golding (Jacksonville, Fla./Clay) contributed 12 points, five rebounds, and three assists, while PJ Murphy (Scranton, Pa./Scranton) added 11 points and six rebounds. Niame Scott (Philadelphia, Pa./Mount Pleasant) provided a key spark off the bench, knocking down four three-pointers and finishing with 14 points. Tyler Ditton (Fulton, N.Y./G. Ray Bodley) chipped in seven points, all in the first half.
SUNY ESF was paced by Franco, who scored a game-high 28 points while hitting four three-pointers and converting 10-of-11 free throws. Patrick Emery added 17 points and a game-high 14 rebounds, while Andrew Cox recorded 15 points. Nathaniel Sletvold and Mikey Sellin added 11 and 12 points, respectively.
Keystone finished with a 37-33 advantage on the boards and dished out 23 assists on 32 made field goals. The Giants also capitalized on SUNY ESF turnovers, scoring 24 points off 18 giveaways.
The game featured 13 ties and 17 lead changes, with neither team leading by more than seven points. Keystone sealed the victory by converting late free throws and limiting the Mighty Oaks to a contested final possession.
Keystone (6-16) resumes United East Conference play on Saturday when they take on Wilson College at 1 p.m.
