HAMILTON, Ont. - Closing out first semester with back-to-back wins, the McMaster Marauders men's basketball team looked to maintain that momentum to start the new year.
The Ontario Tech Ridgebacks were the first team to travel to Burridge Gym in 2023 for a Friday night contest.
With four forced turnovers, three steals and 27 points in the final frame alone, the Marauders closed out to earn a 77-63 victory over Ontario Tech, their third straight victory in OUA action.
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With both the Marauders and Ridgbacks coming off a one month break, it was no surprise that the two teams were excited to get back on the court. Despite the first basket of the game not coming until the 8:05 minute of the first quarter, both teams shot an identical 33.3% from the field and exchanged baskets throughout the opening frame. The Marauders held a 15-13 advantage at the quarter break.
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Ontario Tech found its footing in the second stanza, outshooting McMaster from both the field and 3-point range. It was the four made baskets from the line that proved crucial for the Marauders who led the visitors 36-32 at the half.
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The Ridgebacks had a strong third quarter of play, drawing within two of the hosts with just 10 minutes remaining.
McMaster had a huge final frame, putting up 27 points with twenty of those coming from within the paint en route to a third straight victory.
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Mike Demagus (Scarborough, Ont.) led the Marauders with a season high 24 points while adding three rebounds and five steals.
Mychael Paulo (Brampton, Ont.) (14),
Khalil Miller (Scarborough, Ont.) (11) and
Johnny Kitenge (Oshawa, Ont.) (11) were the other Marauders to score in double digits. McMaster had 17 steals and 29 points off turnovers in the 2023 premiere.
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Next Up
The Marauders will remain at home next Friday and Saturday when both the Laurentian Voyageurs and Nipissing Lakers make the trip to Hamilton. Tip-off is set for 8PM for both contests.
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