Chargers Knock Off the Fourth-Ranked Macomb Monarchs With Thrilling 73-72 Victory
Edison State rallies in final seconds to improve to 3-1
In a game that came down to the final possession, the Edison State Community College men's basketball team hit a buzzer-beating three-point shot to knock off the fourth-ranked Macomb Community College 73-72 on Tuesday, November 12, at home, improving to 3-1 on the season.
The back-and-forth contest featured 11 lead changes and neither team leading by more than six points in the second half, with the Chargers ultimately making the plays needed down the stretch to secure their third victory of the season.
Curry Leads Balanced Attack
Malcolm Curry paced the Chargers with a team-high 18 points on 7-of-17 shooting, including 2-of-7 from three-point range. Curry also contributed five rebounds, five assists, and two steals in 36 minutes of action, providing steady leadership throughout the tightly contested game.
Darian Leslie added 13 points while connecting on 3-of-7 from beyond the arc. Leslie also grabbed six rebounds and dished out four assists in 37 minutes.
Sir Cox provided a crucial spark off the bench with 13 points on efficient 5-of-7 shooting. Cox also pulled down six rebounds, including four on the offensive glass, and added a blocked shot in 18 minutes of play.
Cashawn Ingram contributed 10 points and six rebounds, while Frank Lathem battled inside for six points and six rebounds, including four offensive boards.
Team Effort Makes the Difference
Edison State shot 46.7% from the field (28-of-60) and were particularly effective from three-point range, connecting on 8-of-18 attempts (44.4%). The Chargers also converted 9-of-11 free throws (81.8%) in the clutch moments.
The Chargers' ability to take care of the basketball proved crucial, committing just 11 turnovers compared to Macomb's 15. Edison State also held a slight 33-31 rebounding advantage and blocked 10 shots as a team, disrupting Macomb's offensive rhythm throughout the contest.
Down to the Wire
After a competitive first half that saw Edison State take a slim 39-38 lead into the break, the second half turned into a defensive battle with both teams trading baskets down the stretch.
The game came down to the final possession, with Edison State's defense making a critical stop. Curry hit a game-winning three as time expired to earn a one-point victory and send the home crowd into celebration.
Defensive Intensity
The Chargers' defensive effort was the story in the second half, holding Macomb to just 34 points after allowing 38 in the first half. Edison State's 10 blocked shots altered numerous attempts inside, while the perimeter defense limited Macomb to just 20.0% shooting from three-point range (3-of-15).
Up Next
The Chargers will look to extend their winning streak when they travel to Des Moines to play Iowa Central on Friday, November 14, at 6 p.m. and Des Moines Area on Saturday, November 15, at 4 p.m.
Game Notes
- Edison State improves to 3-1 on the season, winning its second straight
- Malcolm Curry has scored in double figures in all four games this season
- Sir Cox provided key bench production with 13 points on 5-7 shooting
- Chargers shot 44.4% from three-point range (8-18)
- Edison State's 10 blocked shots tied season high
- The one-point victory was the closest margin of the season