Jesuit Too Much For Marauders

Wheeling, WV, Dec. 29, 2009---The Wheeling Jesuit men's basketball team fought off a late run to defeat Millersville University (5-3) 67-59 on day one of Wheeling Jesuit's Main Street Bank Classic Tuesday evening. In the opening seven minutes, the Cardinals were in a back-and-forth battle with the Marauders which showcased two ties and two lead changes. 
 
Jesuit would make a 12-2 run for a nine point lead with 8:13 left to play in the first half. The Marauders pulled within four at the six minute mark when freshmen Recardo Gaddy connected for two and Joe Prati hit from long range to push the lead back to nine. The Cards would take a 26-20 lead into the break.
 
The Cardinals began the scoring in the second half, but the Marauders would answer with a 7-0 run to come within one.  Sophomore Steve Catich knocked down free throws for a three point advantage.  With 10:36 remaining, Catich buried a three for a 45-36 lead.
 
Millersville had another late charge led by with a 13-2 run to take the lead 52-51 with 6:35 to play.  After a cardinal timeout, Gaddy hit another big shot for the lead. Catich connected on back-to-back possessions with a two and a three with 1:53 left in regulation.
 
Catich was 3-4 from 3-point land and tallied 17 points to lead the Cardinals in scoring.  Sophomore Obi Ukwuoma recorded a double-double, capturing 15 rebounds and 11 points while freshman Andre Harris poured in 12 points.  Gaddy finished with 15 points, shooting 5-8 from the field and 5-6 from the charity stripe.
 
Day two of Wheeling Jesuit's Main Street Bank Classic will begin at 4:00 p.m. with Millersville and West Liberty. The nightcap will feature California University of PA and Wheeling Jesuit at 6:00 p.m.