The FMCC Men's Basketball team entered the double-header weekend on a six game win streak and third in the Region III standings.
On Saturday, FMCC hosted the Jefferson Cannoneers and came out on top, 93-85. Kennyh Hardeman got the offense out to an 11-2 lead to start the game. Jefferson was able to narrow the deficit and trailed 28-18 with 10 minutes remaining in the first half. De'Vante Mateo led the Raiders on a 13-2 run to close out the half leading 53-37.
Jelani Moreno led a balanced attack for the Raiders to start the second half. At the 10 minute mark, Jefferson made a 10-2 run and cut it to 73-65. Moreno had an answer and converted on a three point play to end the run. The Cannoneers hung around late into the second half, but Mateo and Moreno paced the Raiders to a 93-85 win.
FMCC shot 54% from the field as a team. Moreno finished with 27 points and 10 assists. De'Vante Mateo had 25 points and 7 assists. Hardeman tallied 17 and Jevonny Brown with 11.
On Sunday, FMCC bounced back for a road-trip to Tompkins Cortland Community College. The Raiders built off a 12 point half-time lead to secure the 81-72 win. Kennyh Hardeman led with 25 points and 11 rebounds and Nahjhime Kirton had 23 points and 17 rebounds.
"The guys played hard back to back days in an emotional weekend for all. Our play wasn't the prettiest at times. We let both opponents hang around in the second half, but different players stepped up when we needed to make a play or get a stop defensively. Both wins were great group efforts and they were able to find ways for us to win," said Assistant Coach Tj Czeski.
FMCC will have one day off before they turn around to play Clinton Community College. The Raiders will travel to take on the Cougars on Tuesday, January 31st at 6:00 p.m.
