Auburn, ME – In front of a standing room gym and the loudest crowd of the year, the Mustangs came to play tonight hammering rival SMCC 73-54. CM began the game on a 7-0 run and slowly increased the lead to 19 points before the SeaWolves knew what hit them. A mini SMCC run the last three minutes of the half cut the lead to 9 points as both teams hit the locker room for halftime.
CM continued to pour it on early in the second half behind key shots by Boston Caldwell (10-16) scoring a game high 25 points. The game flowed nicely CM's way and the home team-controlled tempo throughout the contest. The Mustangs used all 13 players with fresh bodies constantly on the floor.
Coach Gonyea summarizes, "We had two great days of practice before today. We brought in alum Tuffy Motumbo, to speak with the kids last night and he certainly delivered a key, passionate message which resonated with the kids. In fact, that was a talking point post-game and love goes out to Tuffy."
Big DeMarco McKissic delivered controlling the boards and hauling down 7 rebounds with 4 blocks. Coach Gonyea added, "Marco played like a force tonight. He kept out of foul trouble, played hard, but played smart. I thought he dominated the paint."
It was senior night so McKissic, Jaeden Henderson, and Keagan Pitcher were recognized pre-game for their two year of contribution at CM. Again, Coach Gonyea states, "We can't say enough of the play of our three seniors. Jaeden plays his heart out every night, Marco is a force when he decides, and Keagan can shoot it. Outside of basketball, they are great kids, role models for our younger players and kids you want on your team. We are very proud of them!"
Wyatt Hathaway hit for 18 points. Key contributions came from Mpore Semuhoza 8 points, 12 rebounds and two assists and Jaeden Henderson played his usual stellar game collecting 7 points, 6 rebound and dished out 5 assists.
The win solidifies second place for the Mustangs provided NHTI beats Albany in their last game of the season. Then NHTI would secure the first seed. A NHTI loss would propel CM to the top spot.
The squad has a week off and returns to action for the first round of the Yankee Tournament slated for Saturday, February 25 where CM will host.