Hobart basketball closed its non-conference slate in strong fashion, using an 11-0 surge in the final minutes to secure a 66-53 win over Utica on Saturday afternoon in Bristol Gym. The victory pushed the Statesmen to 8-2 entering a four-week break for exams and the holidays, while the Pioneers fell to 6-2.
The Statesmen controlled the game for nearly the entire afternoon, holding the lead for more than 37 minutes and trailing for just 14 seconds. Despite that advantage, Hobart was unable to put the game away until late, finishing 4-of-6 from the field down the stretch while Utica missed its final six attempts.
Sophomore Monty Nedd led Hobart with his first career double-double, posting 20 points and 12 rebounds. He also filled the stat sheet with six assists and five steals. Junior Dorian Paki added 17 points and six boards, with the duo combining to shoot 17-of-27 from the floor.
Utica was paced by Jordan Cain, who scored a game-high 24 points while adding six rebounds and five steals. Dayion Thompson chipped in 15 points, and Liam Teague and Keyaton Parks each pulled down eight rebounds.
Hobart opened the game on an 8-0 run and built a double-digit lead midway through the first half before taking a 34-27 advantage into the break. The Pioneers made multiple pushes in the second half, pulling within two early and later trimming the deficit to 55-53. From there, Nedd sparked the decisive closing run with key baskets and assists as Hobart pulled away.
Hobart resumes Liberty League play on January 9 against Skidmore.
Kyle leads sports coverage and hosts the Concrete Jungle podcast. Have a lead or question? Send it to kyle@fingerlakes1.com.
