SMCC Earns Well-Rounded Conference Win Over NHTI

SOUTH PORTLAND, Maine – Southern Maine Community College (SMCC) Men's Basketball delivered a 91-77 victory over NHTI in a Yankee Small College Conference (YSCC) matchup on Thursday night at The HUB Athletics Center.

SUMMARY  

The Seawolves put together one of their most balanced performances of the season, highlighted by career-high scoring from sophomore guard Cole Pulkinen (Hebron, Maine), who tallied 28 points while adding eight rebounds, four assists, four steals, and two blocks, leading the Seawolves to victory.

SMCC's offense was firing on all fronts, with four players scoring in double figures. Senior guard Thomas Martinotti (Harwinton, Conn.) added 16 points and six rebounds, while Charlie Houghton (Dixfield, Maine) recorded a double-double with 16 points and 11 rebounds. Julius Silva (Biddeford, Maine) knocked down three three-pointers contributing 13 points throughout the game. The Seawolves outscored NHTI 52-22 in the paint and held a 43-31 advantage on the boards.

HOW IT HAPPENED  

SMCC set the tone early, leading 41-36 at halftime behind Pulkinen's aggressive drives to the basket and Houghton's work on the glass. The Seawolves' defense created opportunities, forcing 15 turnovers and converting 21 points.

Just four minutes into the second half, NHTI closed the gap to three points (45-48) with a three-pointer from Donald Brown. However, Silva quickly responded with two three-pointers, helping SMCC maintain their lead. The Seawolves then extended their advantage to as much as 21 points, shooting an efficient 50% from the floor. In the final minute, Cole Pulkinen's last minute layup and free throws secured the win and led to the team's highest-scoring performance of the season.

LOOKING AHEAD

The Seawolves (4-13, 3-7 YSCC) look to build on their performance when they visit Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences on Saturday, January 18, at Albert M. White Gymnasium. Tip-off is scheduled for 4 PM.