Strong second half leads MCLA past SUNY Canton 78-67

North Adams, MA- The MCLA Men's basketball team used a strong second half defensive effort as they earned a much needed victory over the visiting SUNY Canton Kangaroos 78-67.  The Trailblazers held the 'Roos to just 24 second half points to improve to 2-5 overall.  Canton dropped to 2-5 overall. 

John Jones came off the bench to score 22 points, including 17 after halftime.  Vernon Cross chipped in with 19.

MCLA jumped out to a 32-21 lead with 7:32 remaining in the opening half, only to see Canton outscore the Trailblazers 22-4 to grab a 43-37 halftime lead.  The Trailblazers began the second half with a full court trapping defense that pressured Canton into 18 turnovers in the half.

MCLA opened the second half with an 11-2 spurt to grab a 47-45 lead.  After Canton tied it at 47, the Trailblazers used a 13-4 run to grab a 60-51 edge.  Canton would get no closer than seven the rest of the way.

Canton was led by Michael Pulci's game high 24 points off the bench.  Khalid Vaughn added a double double of 15 points and 11 rebounds, while also finishing with 6 assists.  Xzavier Fisher finished with 14.  The Kangaroos were done in by 30 turnovers on the night. 

For MCLA, Jones was 8-15 from the floor for his 22 points.  He completed the double double by grabbing 13 rebounds.  Jones added 5 steals and 5 assists.  Cross was 8-16 from the floor and grabbed 7 rebounds.  MCLA did turn the ball over 24 times.

The Trailblazers are back in action tomorrow night at Keene.  Tip off is at 4pm.