Salem Survives Owls, 82-81; Westfield Still Clinches Top Seed In Conference Tournament

Despite Kenneth Rogers, Jr.'s stellar 23-point performance on senior day , the Westfield State Owls suffered a heartbreaking 82-81 defeat to Salem State when A.Z. Allah's potential game-winning floater rimmed out at the buzzer.

Nicholas Martinez's clutch fadeaway jumper with 5.7 seconds remaining proved to be the difference-maker for Salem State, rising up over the Owls' defense to drain the shot with ice in his veins. The dramatic finish silenced the home crowd and capped off an intense second half that saw multiple lead changes in the final minutes.

The Owls appeared to have momentum on their side when they took an 81-80 lead on Rogers clutch free throws with under a minute to play. Rogers, who had been dominant all night, calmly stepped to the line and knocked down both shots. However, Martinez's late-game heroics would ultimately dash the Owls' hopes of a senior night victory.

The game's final sequence was filled with tension as Westfield State called timeout after Martinez's shot to set up their last play with 5.7 seconds remaining. The Owls got the ball to Allah, who had been efficient all night shooting 7-of-10, but his floating attempt at the buzzer wouldn't fall as Salem State's players erupted in celebration.

Salem State's second-half comeback was fueled by their defensive adjustments, implementing an effective press and zone defense that disrupted Westfield State's rhythm. The Vikings' defensive pressure forced the Owls into several crucial turnovers, with Salem State scoring 27 points off 14 Westfield State miscues. The Vikings' defense was particularly effective during a key stretch midway through the second half when they built their largest lead of 10 points at 62-52.

However, the Owls showed tremendous resilience, fighting back behind the leadership of their seniors. A 13-2 run, sparked by Rogers Jr. and Lid Moreland, brought Westfield State back into the game and set up the dramatic finish.

Martinez led Salem State with 19 points on efficient 9-of-16 shooting, consistently making big shots throughout the game. Jarnel Snow-Guzman provided a crucial spark off the bench with 15 points, including three vital 3-pointers that helped Salem State stay within striking distance. Tyrese Rho added 13 points and 5 assists for the Vikings, while Liam Byrne contributed 10 points and 5 rebounds in a well-rounded team effort.

For Westfield State, Rogers Jr.'s 23-point effort was complemented by senior Lid Moreland's outstanding all-around performance of 17 points, 5 rebounds, and 2 blocks. Moreland's defensive presence was felt throughout the game, making several key stops during the Owls' second-half comeback. A.Z. Allah showcased his scoring ability with 15 points on incredibly efficient shooting before his final attempt fell short.

The first half was a compelling back-and-forth affair that saw multiple runs from both teams. Salem State jumped out to an early 7-0 lead in the opening minutes, threatening to spoil senior night early. However, the Owls' senior-laden starting lineup responded with poise and determination, gradually working their way back into the game.

Westfield State's defense tightened up, led by Eric Johnson's shotblocking presence, and their offense found its rhythm. The Owls took their first lead at 34-33 on a Kenny Rogers Jr. layup, part of a 19-6 run that energized the home crowd. Rogers Jr.'s buzzer-beating three-pointer to end the half sent the Owls into the locker room with a 48-45 advantage and seemingly all the momentum.

The game featured impressive shooting from both teams, with Salem State connecting on 54.8% of their field goals while Westfield State shot a respectable 42.7%. The Vikings held a significant advantage in points in the paint (46-22), but the Owls kept themselves in the game by converting 11 of 15 free throw attempts and scoring 46 second-chance points off 16 offensive rebounds.

Senior night added an extra layer of emotion to the already intense matchup, as Westfield State honored their graduating players before the game. The starting lineup featured all seniors: Lid Moreland, Kobe Parker, Timmy Jacobus, Jordan Lanoue, and Eric Johnson, who together have been cornerstone players for the Owls' program.

Salem State's victory improved their record to 11-14 overall (8-4 MASCAC), strengthening their position in the conference standings while handing Westfield State a tough loss on what was meant to be a celebratory night for their graduating players. The defeat dropped the Owls to 19-6 overall (9-3 MASCAC) and was especially heartbreaking given their strong performance and the dramatic ending in the final seconds. Despite the setback, Westfield State remains atop the MASCAC standings and as the #1 seed will have the advantage of hosting throughout the conference tournament as the in Westfield.

The Owls claim the MASCAC's regular-season title for the sixth time under coach Rich Sutter. 

Westfield State will look to put this one in the rearview mirror and look for their 20th win of the year in the postseason, with their first playoff matchup scheduled for February 27th at 7:00 PM in the MASCAC semifinals, though their opponent is still to be determined.

Written by Tom Onorato – Sports Information Intern