BROOKLYN, N.Y. — Chicago State fell to LIU 73-56 at the Steinberg Wellness Center. CSU (7-23, 5-12 NEC) was led by its bench, which contributed 30 points in the game.
The first half began with LIU's Malachi Davis scoring a jumper at 19:41, setting the tone for an evenly matched half. The Cougars quickly responded, keeping pace through a series of strategic plays, including a fast-break layup by
Corey Sands at 18:09, which tied the score at 4-4. LIU maintained a slight edge with consistent shooting, highlighted by a 3-pointer from Shadrak Lasu at 14:46 and another from Davis at 11:59. Chicago State managed to close the gap in the final seconds with a 3-pointer from
CJ Ray, assisted by
Braelon Bush, narrowing LIU's lead to 32-31 as the half ended.
CSU opened the second half with a quick lead, as
Marcus Tankersley scored on a layup and jumper, both assisted by Ray, putting them ahead 35-32. However, LIU gradually took control, highlighted by Jamal Fuller, who scored 11 points including a 3-pointer at 11:22, helping LIU to a 46-42 advantage. Despite efforts from the Cougars, including a late 3-pointer from Ray, LIU extended its lead with solid free throw shooting, ultimately securing a 73-56 victory. LIU outscored Chicago State 41-25 in the second half, with Fuller contributing significantly in the paint and at the line.
Stephen Byard scored 17 points, made seven field goals, and collected four steals while adding eight rebounds. Ray posted 14 points and distributed six assists, complementing his performance with six rebounds.
Doyel Cockrill III contributed with two steals and two assists. Tankersley finished with eight points and secured six rebounds.
Looking ahead, the Cougars are set to face Wagner College on Saturday, Feb. 28 to close out the regular season. The matchup will take place at the Spiro Sports Center in Staten Island, New York.
