Wilkes Men’s Basketball Secures Season-Opening Victory Over Rowan, 86-77
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The Wilkes University men’s basketball team kicked off their 2025-2026 season with a decisive 86-77 win against Rowan University on Sunday afternoon at the Marts Center, showcasing a balanced offensive attack and clutch free-throw shooting.
WILKES-BARRE – The Colonels demonstrated resilience and firepower in their season opener, overcoming an early deficit and a late Rowan surge to secure a comfortable victory. The win sets a positive tone as Wilkes prepares for a challenging schedule, including a highly anticipated matchup against cross-town rival King’s College.
First-Half Battle and Momentum Shift
The game began with a back-and-forth exchange, as Colin Ackerman opened the scoring for Wilkes, only for Rowan to quickly establish a 7-3 lead. A three-pointer from Ackerman and a fastbreak score by Eli Becker shifted the momentum, giving the Colonels a 9-8 advantage. Wilkes extended their lead to 18-11 within the first seven minutes.
However, Rowan responded with a 13-0 run, regaining the lead and building a 24-18 advantage. The Colonels refused to falter, fueled by key baskets from Ackerman, Becker, and Lucas Lesko, leveling the score at 26 with six minutes remaining in the half. A layup from Jack Argento briefly gave Wilkes the lead back at 28-27. The Colonels closed the first half strong, outscoring Rowan 8-5 to take a 36-32 lead into halftime.
Dominant Start to the Second Half and Rowan’s Response
Wilkes carried their momentum into the second half, opening with a 9-0 run to extend their lead to 45-32. For the first ten minutes of the period, the Colonels maintained firm control, building a commanding 19-point lead, reaching a peak of 60-41. Becker was instrumental during this stretch, contributing nine crucial points.
Rowan, however, refused to concede defeat. They mounted a spirited comeback, narrowing the gap with a 21-8 scoring run over the next six minutes, bringing the score to 68-62. Consecutive three-pointers from Becker and Daniel Santaniello pushed Wilkes back into double-digit lead, but Rowan continued to challenge, remaining competitive until the final minute.
Clutch Free Throws Seal the Victory
In the game’s closing moments, Wilkes demonstrated poise and composure at the free-throw line, converting 10 of 12 attempts to secure the 86-77 victory. The Colonels’ balanced scoring attack proved too much for Rowan to handle.
Balanced Scoring and Key Performances
Four Colonels finished with double-digit scoring performances. Lesko led the team with a stellar 19-point, 10-rebound double-double. Ackerman and Santaniello each contributed 18 points, while Becker added 17 points and also secured a double-double with a team-high 11 rebounds. Ackerman also showcased his playmaking ability, dishing out six assists.
For Rowan, Brycen Williams led the scoring with 20 points, while Taz Cantey dominated the boards with five rebounds and also led the team with six assists.
Looking Ahead
The Wilkes University men’s basketball team will return to action on Tuesday, November 11th, hosting cross-town rival King’s College at the Marts Center. Tip-off is scheduled for 7:00 p.m.
