MOUNT VERNON – Cornell built a 15-point lead in the opening half, although couldn't hold on in Wednesday's 63-56 men's basketball loss to rival Coe inside the Small Athletic and Wellness Center.
The Rams (3-7) came out firing early, draining five 3-pointers over the initial 14 minutes in claiming a 29-14 advantage. As Cornell's shooting cooled off, Coe (5-5) gradually chipped into the deficit.
The Kohawks pulled within 34-27 by intermission and then outscored the Rams 36-22 in the second half.
Cornell still had its chances down the stretch, pushing ahead 54-53 on a
Logan Sharp bucket with 4:19 left in regulation. The Kohawks responded with six unanswered points and stayed in front the rest of the way.
Jordan Magnani's jumper brought Cornell within 59-56 with 44 seconds left. Coe sealed the win with a basket on the ensuing possession, followed by a steal and two more transition points.
Magnani buried four 3-point goals and finished with 16 points. The fifth-year guard passed Chris Heller (1989-92) for sixth place on Cornell's career scoring list with 1,359 points.
Sophomore
Zach Ingle tossed in a game-high 20 points and
Jayden Meeker netted 15. The Rams received seven rebounds apiece from Sharp and
Logan Christensen. Christensen also distributed five assists.
The Kohawks won the battle on the boards, 39-33, and outscored Cornell in paint points, 32-10.
Coming up – The Rams play host to Luther (1-8) at 5:30 p.m. Friday.
