Utica, N.Y. – The SUNY Poly men's basketball team returned to the win column with a 91-77 victory over the St. John Fisher Cardinals. Daimarr Miller led the way for the Wildcats, scoring 25 points on 8-of-11 shooting. With the win, SUNY Poly improves to 13-7 on the season.
 

How It Happened:

The game tipped off with a quick three-pointer from Daimarr Miller, followed by back-and-forth action as both teams exchanged baskets. St. John Fisher responded with Eric Kegler's jumper to cut the lead to one, but SUNY Poly quickly extended its advantage with strong play from Kamryn Comstock and Anthony Rose, who each contributed key layups.

St. John Fisher fought back with Andrew Violante and Max Schneider, who added important points to keep the game close. Violante especially had a solid stretch late in the first half, scoring and hitting free throws to help trim the deficit.

Despite St. John Fisher's efforts, SUNY Poly found success from beyond the arc, with Miller knocking down two crucial three-pointers in the final minutes. The Wildcats also excelled in transition, with Comstock capitalizing on fast-break opportunities.

As the game became more physical with turnovers and fouls, SUNY Poly continued to extend its lead, with Lamarqus Merchant Jr. contributing a three-pointer and several assists. By halftime, the Wildcats held a 50-41 advantage thanks to their depth and efficient shooting.

The second half began with both teams exchanging points, but Miller's quick three-pointer and continued contributions from Comstock and Merchant Jr. kept SUNY Poly in control. St. John Fisher tried to respond with layups from Jonathan McCaffrey and Kegler, but the Wildcats' offense remained effective, especially in the paint.

SUNY Poly's defense stepped up, forcing turnovers and converting fast breaks into points.  A three-pointer from Miller and Merchant Jr.'s free throws helped push the Wildcats' lead to as much as 20 points in the closing minutes. St. John Fisher had brief moments of scoring from Rey Parker and Schneider but couldn't put together a run to make it a close game.

Despite some late fouls and missed opportunities, SUNY Poly secured a 91-77 victory, using a balanced offensive attack and steady defense throughout the second half to seal the win.