Lock Haven Men’s Basketball Has Historic Season, Falls Short of NCAA Tournament
Lock Haven men’s basketball had a historic season this year, finishing with a remarkable 21-8 record and securing the No. 1 seed in the PSAC Eastern Division for the first time ever. Despite facing early challenges with the loss of star guard Eli Washington to injury, the team rallied and went on an impressive run, winning 16 of their next 18 games.
One of the standout players for Lock Haven this season was sophomore guard Justice Shoats. Shoats, who stepped up in the absence of Washington, saw a significant increase in his scoring and assists, becoming a key player for the Bald Eagles. Alongside Shoats, transfers Dyson Harward and Colin Jones made significant contributions to the team’s success, with both players playing crucial roles in the frontcourt.
Coach Mike Nestor praised the team’s resilience and ability to adapt to adversity throughout the season. He highlighted the camaraderie and support among the players, noting how they embraced their roles and worked together towards a common goal.
Lock Haven’s success culminated in a thrilling showdown against Millersville, where they secured the top seed in the PSAC East with a 90-79 victory. The team continued their strong performance in the postseason, capturing a dominant win over West Chester before falling short in a close game against Gannon.
Despite the disappointment of missing out on a postseason bid, Nestor expressed pride in the team’s accomplishments and emphasized the positive trajectory of the program. As the Bald Eagles look towards the future, they will face challenges with the departure of key players, including Shoats who has entered the transfer portal.
As Lock Haven reflects on their historic season, the team and fans can look back on the incredible journey and achievements of the past year. With Nestor’s vision for continued success in the upcoming seasons, the Bald Eagles are poised to build on their accomplishments and strive for even greater heights in the years to come.