Hobart basketball received a historic performance from junior Alex Moesch, but late three-point shooting lifted RPI to a 66-62 Liberty League win Saturday afternoon. The Statesmen fell to 11-6 overall and 5-5 in league play.
Moesch recorded his first career double-double, pouring in a career-high 30 points while pulling down 10 rebounds. He shot 10-of-17 from the field, knocked down four three-pointers, and added four assists. Classmate Dorian Paki also posted a double-double with 10 points and 10 rebounds as the Statesmen finished with a 39-31 advantage on the glass. Allen Mordi added 11 points and six rebounds, while Gabriel Bergeron chipped in seven points, four rebounds and a team-high five assists.
RPI built an early advantage, scoring the first seven points and leading 27-25 at halftime. Hobart stayed within striking distance throughout the opening half, trimming the deficit to two points five times before closing the half on a late run.
Moesch opened the second half with a three-pointer to give Hobart its first lead, and the teams traded momentum through the middle of the period. With under eight minutes remaining, Moesch tied the game at 44, but neither side scored for the next two minutes. RPI broke the drought with a three-pointer and followed with two more from long range, creating separation late.
Hobart rallied in the final seconds, cutting the deficit to two with three seconds remaining, but RPI sealed the game at the free-throw line. The Engineers finished with a decisive edge in points off turnovers, overcoming poor outside shooting for much of the game.
The Statesmen return to action Friday, January 30, traveling to RIT to open a four-game road stretch.
Kyle leads sports coverage and hosts the Concrete Jungle podcast. Have a lead or question? Send it to [email protected].