By Kylie Johnson

PETERSBURG, Virginia – The Southern Maine Community College (SMCC) men's basketball team fell to Penn State Greater Allegheny (PSGA), 68-55, in the first round of the United States Collegiate Athletic Association (USCAA) National Tournament on Monday, March 13.

The Seawolves were chasing PSGA for much of the first half but managed to go into the locker room even at 31 apiece. SMCC closed the gap to two points with 3:11 remaining in regulation, but PSGA pulled away with a series of free-throws to make the comeback insurmountable.

Captain and second-team All-American Jack Pyzynski (Saco, Maine) connected for 17 points, seven rebounds, and two steals. Sophomore captain Thomas Martinotti (Harwinton, Conn.) was the team's second highest scorer with 11.

PSGA's Jeremiah Miller led his team with 20 points, eight rebounds, and two steals. His teammate, Bryce Phillips finished with 12 points and 11 boards.

When asked about the game, Head Coach Matt Richards said, "First half I thought we executed offensively very well and defended them efficiently. Unfortunately, the game is played in two halves, and we struggled a bit on the offensive end in the second… and Greater Allegheny took advantage of that to pull the win."

The result moves the Seawolves to the consolation bracket to play #7 Villa Maria College on Tuesday, Mar. 14. Tip-off is set for 8:00 a.m.

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