ALFRED, NY— The Alfred Saxons overcame an early 10-point deficit to defeat the Houghton Highlanders on Wednesday night, 85-63.
 
Nearly 10 minutes into the first half, John Rivera Jr. nailed a three-pointer to put the Highlanders up, 19-9, but the Saxons immediately followed with a three of their own, kicking off a 20-2 run to establish a commanding lead they would never relinquish.
 
Alfred led by 12 at the half and as many as 20 within the first few minutes of the second period, and while Houghton would cut the deficit to as few as 12 points, they would come no closer.
 
GAME VITALS
Score: Houghton – 63 | Alfred – 85
Records: Houghton: 2-5 (1-1 Empire 8) | Alfred: 6-3 (2-1 Empire 8)
Venue: Terry S. Galanis Family Arena, Alfred University| Attendance: 268

NOTABLE STATS
>> While the Highlanders knocked down 11-of-25 (44%) three-point shots, the Saxons nearly matched them shot-for-shot, hitting 13-of-30 (43%) from long range.  Overall, Alfred shot 48% from the floor, including 55% in the second half, while Houghton shot only 38%.
 
>> The Saxons made the most of their post presence, too, outscoring the Highlanders in the paint, 32-to-20, and maintaining a 44-to-31 rebound advantage.
 
>> David Rosa reached a new career-high, scoring 20 points, going 7-for-16 from the floor and 4-for-9 from three-point range.
 
COACH'S CORNER
"I want to give a lot of credit to Alfred for finding a way to counter what we did defensively to start the game. Unfortunately, it took us far too long to execute the counter to the counter.

"We've had a stretch like that in every game where we get away from what is working on offense and/or fail to recognize on defense, so teams go on big runs.
 
"We're young and learning, but I believe we are learning and that means we are getting closer to our goals.
 
On David Rosa: "I'm asking a lot of David - a new position this year, guard top players, and be a captain as a sophomore. I'm glad to see him break out a little like he did tonight. He's going to keep improving." - Head Coach Jeremy Bialek

UP NEXT
The Highlanders travel to Aurora, New York on Friday to square off against the Wells Express at 7:00 p.m.  Houghton is 4-3 all-time against the Express, but lost their most recent matchup, 101-87, one year ago.