UNCW eliminated from NIT by Dayton 80-61
WILMINGTON, N.C. (WWAY) — In the second round of the NIT, UNCW men’s basketball fell at home Saturday night to Dayton 80-61.
The Seahawks had about as strong a start as they could ask for, building an early 24-14 lead. However, the Flyers responded in kind with a 23-9 run to close out the first half and lead by four at the break.
(Photo: Colton Emswiler/WWAY)
Head Coach Takayo Siddle says he noticed what had changed for the home side.
“I thought we did a lot of bonehead things,” Siddle said. “We didn’t adhere to the game plan. We didn’t adhere to who we are. When you play good teams like that, you pretty much have to be flawless with those things because when you make mistakes, they make you pay for them.”
Dayton then opened the second half with a 21-4 run UNCW could not overcome.
This loss ends both the season and the careers of seniors Noah Ross and Nolan Hodge. The duo played four years for the Seahawks and finished tied for first in program wins from a player with 99 each.
At the end of the regular season, there was no guarantee they would play in Trask Coliseum again. But both of them were happy to see the home crowd one last time.
(Photo: Colton Emswiler/WWAY)
“I wouldn’t want it any other way than to finish it here,” Hodge said. “Thanks to the community and everybody that came out to support us. It means a lot. We’ve been a part of a lot of wins. What a special place.”
“Basketball-wise, the outcome didn’t favor us,” Ross said. “It didn’t end up how we wanted, but just super grateful that I was able to go out on my home floor like that. What an experience. What a four years.”
The Seahawks finish season with an overall record of 27-7.
Click here to see the box score from Saturday’s game.
