By Julian Markese
Sports Editor
The men’s basketball team took care of business at home against Saint Michael’s College on Feb. 21. The final score was 83-71.
It was senior night. Forward Kazell Stewart, a senior, and guard Justice Ellison, a graduate, were honored at halfcourt with their families before the game.
“We wanted to go out and have their last home game be a win. And we did that for them,” Head Coach Scott Burrell said.
Stewart was part of the starting five for the second consecutive game. He set the tone early with an in your-face three that kick-started the Owl’s opening onslaught.
“Kazell keeps battling back. He was very aggressive to start the game, and when you start like that, it helps propel you later,” Burrell said.
After taking the lead only three minutes into the game, the Owls did not relinquish it. Stewart handled the ball well. He finished with 13 points, an assist and seven rebounds.
Stewart has battled injuries throughout his career. He has been a starter and the sixth man. He is a veteran, a leader and a pillar of the university’s basketball program.
“My motivation has been to play every minute I can in my college career,” Stewart said.
Although Saint Michael’s was somewhat effective on fast breaks, when the Owls slowed their momentum and played in the halfcourt, their defense was stifling.
Forward Cherif Diarra, a graduate, played almost the whole game. He made life in the paint hard for his opponents. Diarra grabbed six boards, blocked two shots, dished out five assists and scored 12.
The Owls were more physical, played with more urgency than their opponent. They broke the will of the Purple Knights.
Guard Randy Crosby, a junior, was electric. He came off the bench, knocked down two three pointers and had three assists.
“I try to give Randy confidence everyday in practice. Today, he stepped up, came out and had a blast. It’s so fun to see someone who doesn’t play a lot come on the floor and play,” Stewart said. “I live for those moments.”
Crosby finished with 13 points. His 21 minutes was more than he had played in his career.
“Randy worked his butt off all year. The opportunity came, and he was prepared. Not only did he make great shots, he made the team better. He ran great offense and played with great energy,” Burrell said.
Once again, the star of the show was Ellison. The dangerous shooting guard was a thorn in the side of the visitors. He slashed, cut, pivoted and rose up; shooting 64% from the field for a team high 19 points.
The Owls ultimately fell short this season. After beating Saint Michael’s, the team lost to Franklin Pierce University in their season finale.
Their final record was 11-15. They finished 7-11 in the conference, under .500 for the first time since 2021. The team missed out on the NE10 championships.
