SMCC surrenders lead in final minutes, suffers narrow loss at PSC

Written by Ian Regan.

PAUL SMITH'S, New York – The Southern Maine Community College (SMCC) men's basketball team suffered its fourth conference loss of the season, 76-72, this time to the Bobcats of Paul Smith's College (PSC) on Saturday, Nov. 23.

The first-half PSC defense would disrupt SMCC's offensive production, giving the home team an 11-point advantage going into the break. The Seawolves' intensity on both ends would increase in the second half, helping them recapture a lead with a minute to go in the ball game. The Bobcats were able to take advantage of their opportunities in the final possessions, leading them to a narrow victory.

SMCC captain Thomas Martinotti (Harwinton, Conn.) totaled a team-high 21 points and collected seven rebounds. Sophomore guard Cole Pulkinen (Hebron, Maine) put together a strong performance scoring 17 points and dishing six assists. Sophomore Julius Silva (Biddeford, Maine) ended with a season-high 14 points, shooting 50.0 percent from behind the arc, and sophomore Charlie Houghton (Dixfield, Maine) recorded his third double-double of the season.

The Bobcats were led by Willie Jennings IV who scored 24 points, shooting 5-9 from the three point-line. Anthony Henson added 23 points and four rebounds.

SMCC remains winless at 0-7 overall, 0-4 in conference play. PSC improves to 4-4 on the season, 2-2 in league action.

Next, the Seawolves will host the University of Maine at Farmington (NCAA Div. 3) inside the HUB Athletics Building on Sunday, Dec. 1. Tip-off is scheduled for 3:00 p.m.

For the latest on SMCC's athletic programs, log onto GoSMCCSeawolves.com or follow Southern Maine Community College Athletics on Twitter @SMCCseawolves and on Facebook SMCC Seawolves.