Rogers, Jr.’s Monster Double-Double Helps Owls Survive Falcons Rally, 99-95

WESTFIELD, Mass. – Kenneth Rogers, Jr. (Springfield, Mass.) delivered another dominant performance with 26 points, 19 rebounds, and six assists as Westfield State survived one of the most dramatic comeback attempts in recent program history, holding on for a 99-95 victory over Fitchburg State Wednesday night at the Woodward Center after watching a 27-point second-half lead nearly evaporate in the final minutes.

What looked like a routine conference victory for the MASCAC-leading Owls turned into a nail-biter as the Falcons mounted a furious second-half rally. After Westfield State built their largest lead at 70-43 with just under 14 minutes remaining, Fitchburg State orchestrated a remarkable comeback that nearly changed the game's outcome.

The Falcons' resurgence began with increased defensive pressure, implementing an effective trap press that disrupted the Owls' offensive rhythm. This defensive adjustment, combined with an extraordinary shooting performance, saw Fitchburg State connect on an astounding 72.7% of their second-half attempts, aided by an 18-point second half from Jalen Jackson (San Antonio, Texas) who connected on all seven of his field goal attempts in the half. The Falcons systematically chipped away at the deficit, using a combination of forced turnovers and efficient offensive possessions to gradually close the gap.

The game's momentum shifted dramatically around the six-minute mark of the second half, as Fitchburg State's full-court pressure began forcing crucial turnovers. A series of three-pointers from Nathaniel Semedo (Bridgewater, Mass.) and Nicolas Von Zboray (Pollock Pines, Calif.), combined with strong interior finishing from Jackson fueled a 46-25 run that brought the Falcons within four points with under two minutes remaining.

The tension peaked in the final minute as Fitchburg State cut the deficit to just two points at 97-95. However, the Owls' composure in the closing moments proved decisive. After a blocked shot attempt, Rogers Jr.'s forced a Fitchburg turnover in the backcourt, scoring a putback with 13.7 seconds remaining to give Westfield State a crucial four-point cushion they needed. A final defensive stand, culminating in a missed three-pointer at the buzzer, secured the victory for the Owls.

The dramatic finish stood in stark contrast to the game's opening 25 minutes, where Westfield State appeared to be cruising to another conference victory. The Owls controlled the first half, building a 52-37 advantage through suffocating defense and efficient offensive execution. Their defensive pressure was particularly effective early, forcing nine first-half steals that led to numerous transition opportunities.

Westfield State's strong start carried into the second half's opening minutes, as they unleashed an 11-2 run that pushed their lead to 27 points. The Owls' offensive attack featured crisp ball movement and strong finishing at the rim. However, this commanding position set the stage for Fitchburg State's remarkable comeback attempt.

Rogers Jr.'s game-high 19 rebounds included six offensive boards, while his 26 points marked another prolific scoring night for the freshman forward. His presence on the glass proved particularly valuable during the Falcons' second-half surge, as several of his rebounds helped stem Fitchburg State's momentum.

Senior guard Lid Moreland (Bridgeport, Conn.) continued his strong recent play with 25 points, including three three-pointers, while Xavier Lewis (Long Island, N.Y.) showcased his two-way ability with 12 points, six assists, and a game-high five steals. Eric Johnson (Houston, Texas) recorded two blocks and three steals while providing strong interior defense throughout his 28 minutes of action. A.Z. Allah (Springfield, Mass.) provided six points and four assists in 22 key minutes, including a crucial layup in the final two minutes that helped maintain Westfield State's lead.

Fitchburg State's comeback bid was spearheaded by Jackson's remarkable efficiency, as he finished with a game-high 30 points on 12-of-14 shooting while adding seven rebounds and five assists. Semedo's 23-point performance included four three-pointers, while Matthew Drayton (Boston, Mass.) contributed 19 points in the losing effort. The Falcons' offensive efficiency was noticeable on the night, as they shot 57.4% for the game despite the loss.

With the victory, Westfield State improves to 18-5 overall and 8-2 in MASCAC play, maintaining their position atop the conference standings. Fitchburg State falls to 5-17 overall and 2-7 in conference action.

The Owls will look to build on this win when they travel to Bridgewater State next Wednesday, February 19, for a 5:30 p.m. contest against the Bears.

Written by Tom Onorato – Sports Information Intern