(Latham)
Shaker used a strong third quarter to pull away from Niskayuna in a battle of contenders in the Suburban Council.
The Blue Bison were ready from the jump as they ran out to a quick 9-0 lead and a 15-9 advantage after the first period.
After trailing 17-9 early in the second quarter Niskayuna generated a 10-0 run to grab a two point lead after Brady Olsen steal and dunk. The Silver Warriors extended their lead to 28-21 before Shaker closed the half on a 7-2 run. Niskayuna led 30-28 at the break. Poem Staten scored eight points in the quarter for the Silver Warriors.
Melvin Brown helped Shaker open up the third quarter on a 15-3 run as they grabbed double digit lead. Brown scored an eye popping 20 points in the quarter and the Blue Bison led 53-44 heading into the final period.
Niskayuna trailed by double digits in the final frame but a Jake McDonald three pointer cut their deficit to five points with 1:45 remaining. Shaker was up to the challenge as they made their free throws and secured the victory.
Melvin Brown led all scorers with 29 points, Marcelin Mukendi added 18 points, Bless Demand netted 16 points for the Blue Bison.
Ethan Gilson had 21 points for Niskayuna, Daniel Smalls 14 points, and Poem Staten chipped in with 12 points.
Full game VIDEO HIGHLIGHTS
