SALEM, MA: In an intense MASCAC men's basketball game, the Fitchburg State Falcons were narrowly defeated by Salem State with a final score of 92-89.

THE BASICS:
Date: 2/19/25
Records: Salem (10-14, 7-4 MASCAC), Fitchburg (5-19, 2-9 MASCAC)

HOW IT HAPPENED:
- The game began with Fitchburg State taking an early lead and ending the first half slightly ahead with a score of 42-41. The intensity continued into the second period, where both teams ended up tied at 82 points each, pushing the game into overtime. The Vikings were able to fend off the Falcons, outscoring them 10-7 in the overtime period.
- Salem finished the game with two players scoring 20 or more points. Omri Merryman led the way for the Vikings, finishing with a game-high 26 points. Nicholas Martinez finished just behind him with 20 points, four assists, and four steals. Tyrese Rho also contributed significantly to the hosting team's efforts. Rho finished with a 16-point game.
- The Falcons exhibited strong performances from several players. Matthew Drayton (Boston, MA) led the scoring for Fitchburg State with 24 points, followed closely by Nathaniel Semedo (Bridgewater, MA) with 23 points and several key three-pointers. Jalin Pitts (Palatka, FL) also contributed significantly with 17 points, including vital rebounds (11), completing the double-double. Duvall Price Lanham, MD) stood out on the board with a game-high 14 rebounds.

INSIDE THE NUMBERS:
- Shooting: Salem 52.3%, Fitchburg 41.2%
- 3PT: Salem 46.7%, Fitchburg 42.9%
- Free Throws: Fitchburg 76.9%, Salem 60.7%

UP NEXT:
The Falcons men's basketball team looks to bounce back in their next game against Framingham State, which will be held in Parkinson Gymnasium on February 22, 2025, at noon. This game will mark senior day.

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