Waterville, MAINE- Colby Men's Basketball hosted the 2-7 Maine Maritime Academy, yesterday January 2nd in their first game of 2022. The Mules won easily, finishing with a score of 84-69 (and it never felt that close). 

The first half was a serious statement from Colby, as they entered the locker room with a 42-17 lead.  The first half charge was lead by efficient shooting, forcing turnovers, and great ball movement. By the end of the first, the team was shooting 45.7% from the field and 31.8% from three point. The number don't exactly pop off the page, but in comparison to Maine Maritime's 28% from the field and 0% from three point land on eight attempts, its clear who shot the ball more efficiently. Colby also forced six steels and a block to MMA's one steal, and had 11 assists to their opponents two. When the two teams left the court for halftime, the tone was set and the Mules were able to hang on for the rest of the game.

The second half was much stronger for the Mariners, as they outscored the Mules 54-42. However, it was not nearly enough to bring them back from the deficit created in the first. MMA did everything better in this half, shooting 60% from the field, 50% from three and 100% from the line. They also cut down on the turnovers and moved the ball better, creating seven assists rather than two. Even with the strong effort in the second half, Colby was able to hold on to their lead. While they weren't the most efficient on offense, they were able to control the game through good defense and slow methodical play. They limited their turnovers to only four in the half, recorded six more steals, and another block. Colby Men's Basketball should be proud of how they found a way to hold on to the game, as the shots wouldn't land in the second and they found another way to win, smart team basketball. 

Noah Tyson was one standout performer from the game, he finished with 22 points on 13 shots, five rebounds, a block, and two steals. Kyle Butler also had a fantastic game, finishing with 16 points, four rebounds, and three assists. Finally, First Year David Stewart had a very efficient 10 points, shooting 4-4 and 2-2 from three in only four minutes of game time, which creates an impressive resume for more minutes. 

The Mules will look to build on the post break success on Friday, January 7th at 7:00 PM when they take on the Connecticut College Camels.