UTICA — The Hobart basketball team used an eight-day rest to its advantage on Monday and scored a 77-66 non-conference win at Utica. The Statesmen seized the lead 32 seconds into the game and never relinquished it. Winning for the fifth time in its last six games, Hobart (6-3) had four players finish in double figures led by senior Aidan Rodgers’ game-high 19 points.
The Somers, N.Y., native was 4-for-4 from 3-point range, while going 7-of-8 from the floor.
Sophomore Alex Moesch added 17 points. Senior Hunter Meshanic and first-year Allen Mordi both contributed career-highs. Meshanic logged 13 points, while Mordi notched 11.
“Today was important for our team to finish the first semester with a win,” head coach Stefan Thompson said in a press release. “Credit to our players for keeping their focus post-final exams and giving us their all these past few days.” The Pioneers’ Dayion Thompson scored 17 points before fouling out with just over a minute left in the game.
He was the only Utica (6-3) player in double digits. The Statesmen enjoyed their best shooting effort since opening day, knocking down 50.9% against the Pioneers.
Hobart was locked it from beyond the 3-point arc, making 10-of-19 for a season-high .526 shooting percentage. The Statesmen controlled the glass, out-rebounding Utica 39-29.
Senior Carter Meshanic led the way with a game-high 11 caroms. Hobart connected on 10 of its first 12 shots in the game, jumping out to a 25-9 lead. Rodgers led the charg.
