RACHAEL WHITMAN
STAFF WRITER
Franciscan University men’s basketball team played strong in the second half of its home game Saturday at 2 p.m. against Medaille College but, despite the effort, lost, 91-75.
The Barons started on the defensive side but made the first shot of the game with a layup by sophomore forward Daniel McElroy. The game continued as the Barons kept up with the Mavericks, tying the game 9-9 at one point, but Medaille took control of the rest of the first half and led, 52-29, at halftime.
Sophomore guard Joseph Rall scored the first basket in the second half and continued to contribute to the Barons’ score, making all 13 of his points in the second half.
Senior guard Christian Duke played a strong game on both the offensive and defensive ends of the court. The senior managed a double-double of 29 points and 13 rebounds, team bests against the Mavericks.
Seventeen of Duke’s shots were made during the more competitive second half, helping the Barons to a 46-39 advantage in the second half. This strong half was not enough to win the game, however, as they ultimately lost to the Mavericks, 91-75.
Franciscan will play a conference game at home on Feb. 20, Senior Day, at 1 p.m. against D’Youville College. This will be the last game of the season, and Franciscan will honor Duke, the team’s only senior.