Huntingdon, PA – The Juniata men's basketball team picked up their first win of the 2024-25 season tonight at home against conference foe, Lycoming College. Senior guard Mason Hardy led the way tallying 24 points, 10 assists, seven rebounds and five steals as all five were season highs for the senior guard. Ty Kocak was a force down low, pulling down 20 rebounds and contributing to Juniata's 40 points scored in the paint. 

Juniata and Lycoming traded blows throughout the first 20 minutes, putting the Eagles down three at half. Shooting just 37% from the field and 23% from three, a change of momentum was needed for the Eagles to come out with a victory. 

An energy boost from the crowd seemed to work in Juniata's favor, as the Eagles were able to build up to a seven-point lead with 12 minutes left in the game.  Lycoming did not go away easy, with their three-point shooting keeping them within striking distance. 

A quick change of momentum gave Lycoming an eight-point lead with just two minutes remaining in the half. Clutch baskets from Hardy and Kocak kept the Eagles in the game late. 

Down two with under 30 seconds remaining, Juniata was able to force a turnover, setting Hardy up with a mid-range shot to send this one to overtime. 

The Eagles kept their late second half momentum into overtime, playing some stellar defense and keeping Lycoming off the glass. In the end Juniata was able to pull out an 81-79-point victory to end their 19-game losing streak. 

The Eagles returns to the court this Saturday at home against Drew University.