The Norwich University men’s basketball team demonstrated their dominance in a commanding 63-43 victory over the University of Maine at Fort Kent in the opening round of the 2023 Ed Hockenbury Classic. The game, which took place at Andrews Hall, showcased a standout performance from Owen Liss and Kohlby Murray.
Hailing from West Suffield, Conn., Owen Liss proved to be a formidable force, scoring 19 points off the bench with an impressive 8-12 shooting record. Meanwhile, Kohlby Murray of Fair Haven, Vt., contributed 13 points, three assists, and three steals.
From the onset, the Cadets took the lead, with Murray scoring a layup off the opening tip. Norwich maintained their advantage throughout the game, with Jalen Olivero of Holyoke, Mass., extending their lead to double digits. Despite attempts by UMaine-Fort Kent to narrow the gap, Liss halted their momentum with a swift 5-0 run to end the first half.
The second half saw Rodrick Pearson of Hartford, Conn., and Nabiyu Ndiaye of Barcelona, Spain, stepping up offensively, leading to a 20-point lead with Murray’s free throws. The Cadets secured their largest lead of 24 points late in the game.
Norwich University maintained control and excelled in various categories, including points in the paint (40-22), fast break points (14-3), and bench points (34-20).
In the subsequent game, Trinity College, ranked 18th nationally, overcame a slow start to claim a 76-44 victory over Framingham State. This sets up a matchup between UMaine-Fort Kent and Framingham State in the consolation game, scheduled for Sunday, Dec. 3 at 1:00 p.m. Meanwhile, Norwich University will face Trinity College in the championship game at 3:00 p.m.
Norwich’s impressive performance and upcoming clash with Trinity College promise an exciting finale to the Hockenbury Classic. With their strong display of skill and teamwork, the Cadets are poised to bring an electrifying game to the championship tilt.