The Bison men’s basketball team started off the 2021-22 season strong with their opening game against NC State. The Orange and Blue had an excellent performance in the first half holding the lead for all but 1 minute, but were unable to hold on for the remainder of the second half. 

The Orange and Blue were able to tie up the game 40-40 at the half with a layup from Alex Timmerman ’23, but struggled as they headed deeper into the second half. NC State was able to score four times in two minutes to start a breakout lead. 

With 14 points each, Xander Rice ’23 and Andrew Funk ’22 lead the Bison in scoring. Jake van der Heijden returned to his home state adding 11 points on the day. Youngsters Josh Adoh ’24 and Andre Screen ’24 each tallied 10 points and 8 rebounds. 

The Bison had a 46.0 shot percentage, however they struggled at the 3-point arc with a 9-for-31 shot percentage. NC State was able to outshoot the Orange and Blue, especially in the second half with a 52.9 shot percentage. NC State also outshot the Bison 15-3 from the foul line. 

Coach Davis was very complimentary of the team’s performance, explaining that they were able to generate a ton of offensive power against a quality opponent. NC State was a bit bigger and faster which got the best of the Bison in the second half, but their fundamental play was solid. 

Despite the loss to a tough ACC team, the Bison are optimistic that they will continue to improve as the season progresses. Catch the Orange and Blue in their first home game this coming Sunday against UPenn at 2 p.m.!