CHICAGO, Ill. — Chicago State narrowly fell to FDU, 60-59, at the Emil and Patricia Jones Convocation Center on Greek Night Thursday night. The game featured 10 ties and 9 lead changes, with CSU tallying 18 assists and 6 steals, but FDU edged out the victory.
The game opened with CSU gaining an early advantage through a 3-pointer by
Corey Sands at 17:52 and a layup from
CJ Ray at 17:11, pushing them to a 5-0 lead. FDU responded with Joey Niesman's jumper at 14:16, narrowing the gap to 5-2. The teams exchanged leads throughout the half, highlighted by
Stephen Byard scoring five consecutive points, including a 3-pointer at 8:58, to regain a 12-11 lead. In the final minute, FDU's Cyril Martynov converted a layup with 54 seconds remaining, giving the visitors a 28-26 lead at the end of the first half.
FDU narrowly edged out the Cougars with a 60-59 victory in a tense second half. Niesman clinched the win by hitting a free throw with just two seconds remaining. Chicago State's
Doyel Cockrill III momentarily tied the game at 59 with a 3-pointer at the 10-second mark, following an assist from Byard.
Marcus Tankersley led the CSU offense earlier in the half, contributing crucial points to keep the game competitive, but FDU's late-game execution ultimately secured its triumph.
Cockrill III scored 17 points, including three 3-pointers, and recorded five assists. Byard added 15 points and collected eight rebounds.
Malek Robinson contributed with two steals and two assists.
Joseph Owens provided defensive support with two blocks.
Looking ahead, the Cougars will host Central Connecticut State University on Saturday, Feb. 21 in the home season finale and Senior Day. The game will tip off at 1 p.m. at Jones Convocation Center in Chicago, Illinois.
