Spartans Lose Close Contest to #11 Cougars

Cayuga Community College Men's Basketball stayed close the whole game before losing late to one of the top teams in the country on Wednesday.

A strong defensive effort wasn't enough for the Spartans against #11 Genesee Community College, with Cayuga falling 70-67 after trailing by single digits for most of the game.

"I thought we played well, especially on the defensive end," said Coach Tony Borges. "On offense, we didn't turn the ball over much. We just had a couple shots we usually make that didn't fall this game."

Both teams started slow on the offensive end, but the Cougars held a small lead for much of the frame and led 27-24 at the break. The teams traded the lead early in the second half, with Cayuga briefly leading 31-30 and 39-38, the second lead gained after a layup by guard Donald Grant.

The Cougars rebuild the lead and led by 10 with five minutes remaining before the Spartans started their comeback. Free throws by Jorge Jimenez and a layup by DJ Johnson cut into the Cougars' advantage, and a three-pointer from Chris Kirkland made it 66-63 with 47 seconds left. Free throws by the Cougars in the closing seconds, though, iced the game for Genesee.

Cayuga forward Tony Borges led the Spartans with 23 points while also grabbing five rebounds. Jimenez and Grant added 12 and 10, respectively, with both contributing three assists. Ryan Adams had a team-high seven rebounds.

The Spartans are back home Saturday, January 27, to host Hudson Valley Community College. Tipoff is scheduled for 3 p.m.