___________________________________________________________________

| 11/7/2022 11:30 AM | Kevin Turi, Sports Information Coordinator

Syracuse, NY- The Bryant & Stratton College- Syracuse Men's Basketball team earned their first two victories of the season over the weekend. The two wins came over Jefferson Community College on Saturday and Cayuga Community College on Sunday. With the two victories, the Bobcats record improves to 2-1 at this early stage in the season.

How it Happened:

On Saturday, the Bobcats were looking to bounce back after suffering a tough defeat to Genesee Community College earlier in the week. Once again playing on the road in a tough environment, the Bobcats faced a difficult test against Jefferson Community College.

The game was a battle with both teams making shots and going on little runs to keep the game tight throughout the first half. The Bobcats were able to edge ahead of the Cannoneers and take a 35-34 lead heading into halftime.

The second half was similar to the first with both teams taking leads at various points in the half. However, big games from Josue Oreste (25 points, 8 rebounds), Darren Joyner (16 points, 7 rebounds), and Moses Hughes (18 points, 7 rebounds) were the difference maker for the Bobcats down the stretch. The trio continuously made big plays and helped the Bobcats earn their first win of the season, 69-65.

On Sunday, the Bobcats were back in action once again on the road for a matchup versus local rival Cayuga Community College. Games between these two teams are always tough, physical matchups and this one continued that theme.

Not until the final few minutes of the first half were the Bobcats able to gain some separation from Cayuga CC. Big contributions from Tayron Bangs, Ravon Burnett, and Vincent Frenza off the bench provided a spark for the Bobcats offense. The three players hit big shots and helped the Bobcats turn a deficit into a 13-point lead heading into the half.

In the second half, the Bobcats continued to rely on their bench showcasing how deep of a roster they truly have. However, down the stretch of the game, Jameel Abdallah, made several big plays for the Bobcats and ensured the Bobcats would earn their second victory of the season, 74-69.

"This weekend was the perfect way for our group to bounce back after a tough loss to open the season," said Head Coach Clay Gagen-Sherman following his first victories as the Men's Basketball Head Coach.

"Both opponents we played have strong teams and for our guys to battle the way that they did is a great indication of the resiliency this team has. From top to bottom, everyone played a role this weekend and we earned two all-around team wins."

Next Game:

The Bobcats will play in their home-opener this weekend vs. Paul Smith?s College at 2pm.

Be sure to follow @bscbobcatssyr on all of our social media platforms for updates and more!