Columbia, MD - The Howard Community College Dragons knocked down 12 three pointers Saturday night, setting a new single-game record, but it wasn't enough to defeat the Monroe University Mustangs.
The Dragons JV team officially kicked off their second season in program history with an impressive offensive showcase. Three Dragons hit double-digits in points, but foul trouble and just 23 rebounds for the Dragons compared to 45 total for the Mustangs allowed Monroe to secure the 84-73 win.
The first half was a shootout as the Dragons erupted to a 10-4 lead in the opening minutes. Howard held a multi-possession lead throughout the first half, aided by excellent three-point shooting from guards
Noah Mercer (Washingon, D.C./SEED DC Charter School) and
Cameron Beane (Baltimore, MD/Loch Raven). Monroe turned to their bench for assistance, and thanks to deep three-point shooting, they pulled ahead at the half. The second half saw the Mustangs hold on to the lead deep into the half, aided by foul trouble for the Dragons. Howard had multiple players hit three or more fouls, and due to just tow available subs, had to make constant substitutions to keep their numbers full. The Dragons also lacked the length to out-rebound the Mustangs, who snagged 45 total boards. While Howard's shooting was phenomenal, they couldn't beat the Mustangs in the paint.
Noah Mercer (Washingon, D.C./SEED DC Charter School) led the Dragons with 20 points, four three-pointers, two assists, and two steals, coming within two points of the program record for points.
Jawan Hopson (Baltimore, MD/New Town) scored 19 points, eight rebounds, four assists, and a steal.
Cameron Beane (Baltimore, MD/Loch Raven) added 13 points, four assists, and three steals, while
Miles Reinders (Laurel, MD/Reservoir) came off the bench to add nine points, three rebounds, two assists, and two steals.
Brando Campos (Baltimore, MD/Hammond) had eight rebounds and eight points, including two three points. Of the seven players the Dragons dressed, six hit at least one three pointer, and four hit two or more.
The Dragons next face Harcum College in a rematch of last season's double-overtime classic on Monday, December 8 on the road!
