UVI Buccaneers Explode for 112 points in Homecoming Game
| Final | 1 | 2 | T | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Team Tola | 33 | 36 | 69 |
|
Virgin Islands | 65 | 47 | 112 |
The University of the Virgin Islands (UVI) men's basketball team exploded for 112 points in a season-opening win over Team Tola from the British Virgin Islands in an exhibition game on Thursday night at the Elridge Blake Sports and Fitness Center. The game drew a crowd of over 1,200 fans to witness the school's homecoming game, making it one of the largest attendances in recent school history.
"We performed exceptionally well, particularly in the first half," stated Kevin Sheppard after his debut as head coach of the Buccaneers. "I am truly pleased with the team's effort and performance. However, there are areas where we can improve, and we are committed to developing in those areas to reach our full potential. We will remain humble and dedicated to our work. This game was just the beginning, offering a glimpse of the team we can become."
From the opening tip, UVI controlled the game, leading in a wire-to-wire win. The Buccaneers established their dominance early on, going 8-for-9 from the field on a 19-0 run to open the game, which set the tone for an impressive overall performance. Sophomore Khaleed Heywood's back-to-back baskets gave UVI a commanding 31-point lead with over eight minutes left in the first half.
The team shot an impressive 66% from the field, 56% from three-point range, and a perfect 100% from the free-throw line. Junior Guard Amayoa'ah Phillip led the charge with 19 first-half points, helping UVI close the half with a 65-37 lead.
The Buccaneers continued their explosive offense in the second half, adding another 47 points to secure a 43-point victory, with a final score of 112-69.
Six Buccaneers scored in double digits, with Phillip leading the way with 23 points. Preseason All-HBCUAC selection Jalil Langston and Edwin Solis each added 16 points. Senior forward Nico Thomas and freshman guard Elijah Peltier led the second unit with 14 and 13 points, respectively, totaling 27 of the team's 44 bench points. Sophomore guard Chad Malloy rounded out the double-digit scorers with 10 points on the night.
On the defensive end, UVI capitalized on turnovers, scoring 32 points off 23 forced turnovers. The team recorded 17 steals, with Malloy leading the way with four steals. Solis contributed two blocks to the team's stifling defense.
The Buccaneers are set to resume play on November 8th at 8 p.m. at the Elridge Blake Sports and Fitness Center for their last exhibition game against "The Virgin Islands Elite" before kicking off their regular season on the road in late November.
