Men's basketball continues outstanding non-conference run

The Hofstra men’s basketball team continued their impressive non-conference play, defeating the Holy Cross Crusaders 91-69 in the Boca Raton Beach Classic at FAU Arena on Sunday, Dec. 1.

Ball control became an issue for the Pride as the team allowed 17 turnovers to the struggling Crusaders defense. On the other hand, the Pride managed 24 forced turnovers of their own and still finished +7 in the turnover margin.

“We did all the things we had to do to win,” said head coach Joe Mihalich. “I hate to be negative after a win, but we got a little sloppy at times.”

The team still found a way to win in convincing fashion, improving to 5-3 on the year. Veteran guard Desure Buie played a huge role in this one, putting up 21 points, five assists and four steals. Buie has been crucial for the Pride offense in the post-Justin Wright-Foreman era.

“He’s a great leader and somebody that makes his teammates better,” Mihalich said.

Alongside Buie, transfer big-man Isaac Kante shined, posting a near double-double with 12 points and eight rebounds. Kante has been arguably the best player in the post for the Pride, reeling in 52 total rebounds over 8 games.

“This is [the] seventh game [Kante] has played in two years,” Mihalich said. “He sat out last year because he was a transfer and when he was in Georgia he didn’t play. He’s still getting his game rhythm, but he’ll keep getting better and better.”

The Pride thrived overall on defense as the Crusaders offense had no answers for the blue and yellow. Hofstra had 13 total steals and held Holy Cross to 4-18 behind the arc, including only one three-pointer in the first half.

“We mixed it up pretty good,” Mihalich said. “Our guys were active and we anticipated well.”

The Pride has grown accustomed to the road, having played away from home in their last four contests. With two more road matchups still looming, Hofstra will look to finish strong before returning home to Hempstead.

“It’s going to be a grind,” Mihalich said. “You have tough road trips and this is one of the toughest I’ve ever been on in my life.”

The Pride will be back in action tomorrow for their second contest in the Boca Raton Beach Classic against Canisius. The Pride and the Golden Griffins will tip off at 2 p.m. at FAU Arena.

 Image courtesy of Hofstra Athletics