ELMIRA, NY – The Elmira College men's basketball team battled hard but couldn't overcome a high-powered Utica offense, falling 100-80 on Friday night at Speidel Gymnasium. Despite a stronger showing in the second half, the Soaring Eagles were unable to close the gap after a fast start from the Pioneers.

JUST THE BASICS:
SCORE: Utica 100, Elmira 80
LOCATION: Speidel Gymnasium | Elmira, NY
RECORDS: Elmira (7-16, 3-11 Empire 8), Utica (16-7, 10-4 Empire 8)

HOW IT HAPPENED:
Utica wasted no time setting the tone, outscoring Elmira 43-33 in the first half. The Pioneers' offensive efficiency, especially when capitalizing on turnovers was a challenge for the Soaring Eagles to overcome. EC struggled from the field, shooting just 25.6% (10-39) in the first half.

Elmira found more rhythm in the second half, led by Tyler Cardello '26, who finished with a team-high 19 points on 6-of-13 shooting. JJ Babcock '26 added 13 points, seven rebounds, and four steals, while Kelton Brown '28 contributed 12 points and two steals. Chris Woodard '28 (10 points, 10 rebounds) recorded a double-double, providing energy off the bench.

Despite shooting 42.1% in the second half, Elmira couldn't slow down Utica's attack, which had 57 points after the break. The Pioneers capitalized on 29 points off turnovers and outpaced the Soaring Eagles in transition, securing the road win.

UP NEXT:
Elmira looks to bounce back as they continue Empire 8 play against SUNY Poly on 2/15.