The Oswego State men's basketball team defeated New Paltz 71-47 Tuesday evening at Max Ziel Gymnasium. With the win, the Lakers move to 14-7 overall and 10-4 in the SUNYAC. New Paltz drops to 10-11 on the season, 8-6 in the conference.
After losing to New Paltz in overtime at their home court, Oswego was out to prove it was the better team. The Lakers came into this contest doing exactly that, going on a 20-5 run to start the game. The run was fueled from the 3-point line, where Kyle Covley and Alex Rawa each hit two. Rawa would hit another two in the first, helping Oswego bring a 39-23 lead into half. There was no letting up in the second stanza, as Oswego would never let its lead drop to below 16 points, eventually earning the 71-47 victory.
Walter Sampson's led all players in assists with five and his 15 points were only matched by New Paltz's Taylor Sowah. Also hitting double-figure points for the Lakers was Brian Sortino (13) and Rawa (12).
Defense also played a key role in the Lakers win, as the team held the Hawks to the second lowest point total all season and the lowest of any conference opponent. Oswego forced 20 turnovers in the game as well, a feat only bettered during a double-overtime win against Oneonta early this year.
Underneath the basket, Mark Candelario did his part to clean up, raking in nine rebounds on the night.
Men's basketball returns to action at 5:30 p.m. on Friday as it hosts the Potsdam Bears.
