In a pivotal matchup, the Brock Badgers men’s basketball team electrified the Bob Davis Gymnasium on Feb. 9, clinching a crucial 70-56 victory against the Laurentian Voyageurs. With the playoffs looming, this win keeps the Badgers’ postseason hopes alive with just two games left in the regular season.
Freshman standout Andrew McKenna showcased his talent with a stellar performance, notching 17 points and seven rebounds, while seniors Jordan Tchuente and Kevaughn Ellis delivered impactful contributions on their senior night. Tchuente’s all-around game was on display, tallying 18 points, seven rebounds, three blocks, and an assist; while Ellis impressed with 13 points and six steals.
The game started as a defensive showdown, with both teams trading turnovers in a hard-fought first quarter. Ellis emerged as a defensive force, racking up four steals and igniting the Badgers’ offence with timely plays. Heading into the second quarter, Brock held a 19-15 lead.
Despite an effort from Laurentian, Brock maintained control for much of the second quarter, due to McKenna’s offensive prowess. However, the Voyageurs rallied late to tie the game at 32-32 heading into halftime.
The third quarter saw Laurentian snatch the lead, but Brock refused to relent. Ellis and McKenna led the comeback, ensuring the Badgers stayed within striking distance as they trailed 48-47 entering the final frame.
Determined to comeback, the Badgers unleashed a relentless defensive onslaught in the fourth quarter, pressuring the Voyageurs into costly turnovers. McKenna, Ellis, Tchuente, and Jevon Brown led the charge on offence, propelling Brock to a well-deserved win in front of a home crowd.
With this important victory, the Brock Badgers continued their pursuit of the postseason and looked to carry the momentum into Hamilton as they faced off against McMaster on Feb. 10 – and they did exactly that.
The Badgers beat the Mauraders 81-66 and kept their playoff hopes alive heading into their last game of the season. Isaiah Bujdoso led the way shooting 81.8 per cent from the field, with 23 points, seven rebounds, two assists and two steals. Tcheunte, McKenna and Hackett also tallied double-digit points and all had two steals.
Brock plays their last game at home on Feb. 17 against Nipissing University. With a win against Nipissing and some help from other teams around the league, they could clinch a playoff spot.
For tickets to the last regular season game of the season click here or watch on OUA.tv. For more information on the team, visit gobadgers.ca.