Holy Cross and Bucknell started off the game playing very strong man-to-man defense, making it very difficult for either team to score during the first 2 minutes of the game. Holy Cross’ Torey Thomas started off the game tonight by nailing a three-pointer deep outside the line. Holy Cross also got a great deal of support from their role players off the bench. Pat Doherty and Eric Meister combined for 12 points in the half, shooting 5-of-7 from the field including Doherty hitting 2 from three-point land. The Bison never led all game.

Bucknell got very little from their major players during the half. Patriot League Preseason Player of the Year Chris McNaughton got two very early fouls and was forced to only play 9 minutes in the first half. At the end of the half Holy Cross led by 6.

The Crusaders led off the second half with a huge block by Keith Simmons, which was followed by a three pointer made by Thomas. Holy Cross then went on a 7-2 run to start off the half and led throughout the entire second half. For the first fifteen minutes of the half, Holy Cross completely dominated; they led throughout and had twice the energy that Bucknell possessed. During the final 5 minutes, Bucknell fired back and cut the lead to 1. The Bison were led by the strong play of Justin Castleberry, who off the bench scored 16 points (8 in the second half). During the final minute of the game, Holy Cross was able to convert on their free throws, and grab more offensive rebounds, which led to them winning the game.