Medford, Massachusetts - In a highly anticipated matchup against #13 ranked Tufts, Colby went back and forth with the Jumbos in a high-scoring game until the end. Unfortunately, the Mules fell 82-90, taking their overall record to 9-5, and their NESCAC conference record to 1-1.

From the jump, Colby matched Tufts' patient but effective offense, not letting them get out of reach and even taking the lead themselves. Jack Lawson commanded the floor, finishing at the rim and from outside the paint resulting in double-digit points in the first half. The Mules took the lead around 8 minutes in after Ben Kaczmarek buried a triple, inspiring multiple lead changes from then on. Max Poulton started to come alive with two go-ahead jumpers, while Lawson stretched the floor with a three-pointer of his own to give Colby a 28-26 lead with 6 minutes to go. Tufts would eventually go on a 6-2 run to end the half, taking a 47-43 lead heading into the break.

The Mules responded brilliantly to start the second, getting back into the game through smart shot selection. Both teams spread the ball across the court on each possession, waiting for an opening, primarily in the paint. However, Colby reverted to their reliable three-point shooting not long after with Sam Hinman pulling the Mules within 1. On the next possession, Poulton knocked down a go-ahead triple for Colby's first lead of the half. Hinman's hot hand resulted in three threes in the second half, all to keep the Mules within one possession, but Tufts eventually pulled away. With around five minutes left, Colby had no response to Tufts' efficient offense and their deficit quickly became insurmountable. 

The Mules' capability to hang with not only tough but ranked teams, shows promise for their upcoming games. Although the result didn't go their way, this game should give them confidence going forward. Colby's away streak continues this Tuesday, January 14th, in Brunswick, Maine as they face in-state rivals Bowdoin.