The Miami University RedHawks men’s basketball team (19-7, 10-3 in conference play) continued its losing streak on Feb. 18 with a 76-66 loss against the Eastern Michigan University Eagles (13-13, 6-7 in conference play).
Senior guard Jalen Terry and senior forward Da’Sean Nelson, two of the Mid-American Conference’s (MAC) top scorers, contributed 25 and 24 points, respectively, for the Eagles. Eastern Michigan shot 8-18 (.444) on triples, good for its fourth-most accurate game this season from behind the arc.
Miami’s 17 defensive rebounds and two blocks rank among the team’s worst defensive performances this season. This, combined with an underwhelming offense, resulted in the RedHawks dropping their second-straight matchup against a MAC opponent with a record under .500.
Two RedHawks posted double-digit points, with sophomore wing Eian Elmer and redshirt sophomore wing Kam Craft bringing in 19 and 11 points, respectively. However, the team shot 25-63 (.397) on field goals, its second-lowest of the season.
Two free throws from sophomore guard Mekhi Cooper gave Miami an early lead. However, the Eagles scored 11 points before the RedHawks could get one through the hoop.
A 3-pointer from sophomore guard Evan Ipsaro and a jump shot from Craft cut the deficit, but another big scoring run for Eastern Michigan had the RedHawks retreating to the locker room down 35-23 at the half.
The Eagles continued to build their advantage, even taking a 21-point lead with 10 minutes on the clock. They held the RedHawks at bay until the final buzzer, and Eastern Michigan won 76-66.
Redshirt first-year wing Brant Byers and junior forward Antwone Woolfolk – two consistent players for the RedHawks during MAC play – combined for two points, with Woolfolk going scoreless.
Instead, graduate student guard Dan Luers subbed in during the final 12 minutes and scored seven points, including a 3-pointer. Luers previously averaged 3.6 points in his nine appearances this season.
The RedHawks remain at No. 2 in the MAC, but with one more loss and a University of Toledo Rockets win, they may drop to No. 3.
Miami returns to Millett Hall for Love.Honor.Care Day on Feb. 21 against the Kent State University Golden Flashes.
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