Boston, MA – The SUNY Poly men's basketball team secured their first victory of the season, defeating the Emmanuel College Saints 75-66. Four Wildcats finished in double figures, with Cheickne Toure leading the way with 20 points. The win improves the Wildcats' record to 1-1 on the season.

HOW IT HAPPENED:

Both teams shot efficiently in the first half, with neither squad dipping below 44 percent from the field. The Wildcats were especially strong at the free-throw line, converting 10 of 11 attempts in the first half and finishing 23 of 27 (85%) for the game. Cheickne Toure, LaMarqus Merchant Jr., and Anthony Rose led the offensive charge, helping the Wildcats build a 40-33 lead heading into the break.

The second half saw both teams trade baskets, with each scoring 33 points. The Wildcats shot 48 percent from the field and nearly 60 percent from three-point range, maintaining their offensive momentum. As the game neared its final minutes, Merchant Jr. made a pair of pivotal steals, sparking offensive opportunities that gave SUNY Poly a late cushion. The Wildcats sealed the win with clutch free throws in the final moments, closing out the game 75-66.

"I'm really proud of the toughness our guys showed tonight," said head coach Rob Schoener. "To bounce back and win on the road against a tough team—it was a complete team effort."