Moreland’s Game-High 20 Points Propels Owls into MASCAC Championship Game

WESTFIELD, Mass. – Lid Moreland (Bridgeport, Conn.) delivered a commanding game-high 20-point performance on efficient 9-of-15 shooting, leading the top-seeded Westfield State Owls to an emphatic 83-67 victory over the fourth-seeded Framingham State Rams in the MASCAC semifinals at the Woodward Center on Thursday night. The win advances the Owls to a championship showdown against the second-seeded Salem State Vikings, with the title matchup scheduled for Saturday from the Woodward Center at 1:00 P.M..

Moreland's defensive intensity set the tone as he racked up five steals, creating numerous fast-break opportunities for himself and his teammates. His ability to attack the paint and knock down reliable mid-range jumpers kept the defense on its heels, while he also connected on his lone three-point attempt. The senior guard's leadership was evident from the opening tip, setting a tone of intensity that permeated through the entire Westfield State roster.

The Owls' balanced attack featured their five starters scoring in double figures, with freshman forward Kenneth Rogers, Jr. (Springfield, Mass.) complementing Moreland's effort by contributing 15 points, four rebounds, five assists, and four steals. Rogers' aggressiveness earned him multiple trips to the free-throw line, where he converted 5-of-6 attempts, helping Westfield State maintain control throughout the contest.

Sophomore guard Xavier Lewis (Long Island, N.Y.) orchestrated the offense masterfully, dishing out a game-high seven assists to go along with his 10 points, including a pair of three-pointers that prevented Framingham State from focusing too heavily on Westfield State's interior presence. Senior forward Timmy Jacobus (Willemstad, Curacao) added 10 points, including two three-pointers from one of the most efficient shooters in the conference. Eric Johnson (Houston, Texas) completed the starting five with 10 points, seven rebounds, and two steals, controlling the paint throughout the game.

The Owls wasted no time imposing their will with an aggressive man-to-man press that forced Framingham State into 27 turnovers (18 in the first half), fueling their high-paced offense. Westfield State capitalized on these miscues, turning them into easy transition baskets that accelerated the game in their favor. The Owls outscored the Rams 56-40 in the paint, a 16-point advantage. This defensive pressure, combined with their fast break execution, allowed Westfield State to shoot an impressive 49.3% from the field, consistently creating high-percentage scoring opportunities and controlling the tempo throughout the game.

Framingham State had difficulty countering Westfield State's balanced attack, despite a team-high 14 points from guard Dyree Rogers (New City, NY), who shot 5-of-8 from the field and 4-of-4 from the free-throw line. Kyle Philistin (North Plainfield, NJ) contributed 13 points, including two three-pointers, while Joshua-Daniel Okafor (Hyde Park, MA) added 11 points and six rebounds. Joshua Saint Jean (Lynn, MA) also played a key role, contributing 11 points and nine rebounds in the loss.

Another key factor in the Owls' victory was their presence on the offensive glass, securing 12 offensive rebounds that led to 12 second-chance points. Westfield State's rebounding was a collective effort, with several players contributing to the team's effort on the boards. Johnson played a key role, helping extend possessions and frustrate Framingham State's defense with multiple offensive rebounds—four to be exact. The team's effort on the glass was a major factor in controlling the game and limiting the Rams' second-chance opportunities.

Westfield State's depth also played a significant role, as junior guard A.Z. Allah (Springfield, Mass.) provided a substantial spark off the bench with eight points, two assists, and two rebounds. The Owls' bench outscored Framingham State's reserves 18-12, highlighting their superior depth and allowing their starters to remain fresh throughout the contest.

While Framingham State connected on an efficient 59.5% of their field goal attempts, they were limited to just 42 shots compared to 73 for Westfield State. This significant disparity in shot attempts, fueled by the turnover differential and Westfield State's offensive rebounding, proved insurmountable for the Rams.

The Owls' ball movement was superb throughout the game, as they recorded 20 assists on 36 made field goals, consistently finding the open man and making the extra pass to create high-percentage scoring opportunities. This unselfish approach allowed Westfield State to maintain a comfortable lead throughout the second half, despite Framingham State's best efforts to mount a comeback.

The victory sets up an intriguing championship matchup against Salem State, who advanced to the final with a hard-fought 77-74 win over Worcester State in the other semifinal. The Owls will look to leverage their balanced attack, defensive intensity, and home-court advantage as they pursue the MASCAC championship.

Saturday's championship game tip-off is at 1 pm at the Woodward Center. Tickets are $6 for adults and $3 for non-students and senior citizens. Westfield State students receive free admission with a valid ID, while staff and faculty can attend for free with an athletic pass. Children 12 years old and under also receive free admission. Fans unable to attend can follow live updates and streaming coverage at WestfieldStateOwls.com.

Written by Tom Onorato – Sports Information Intern