**Lock Haven Dominates Goldey-Beacom 83-63 Behind Shoats' 24-Point Performance**
WILMINGTON, Del. – Justice Shoats erupted for 24 points on an efficient 11-of-18 shooting performance to lead Lock Haven to a commanding 83-63 victory over Goldey-Beacom Tuesday night at the Lightning's home court.
The Bald Eagles (1-2) controlled the game from the opening tip, jumping out to a 40-27 halftime lead and never allowing the home team to mount a serious comeback attempt. Lock Haven's balanced offensive attack and stifling defense proved too much for Goldey-Beacom (1-2) to overcome.
Shoats, who played all 40 minutes, showcased his versatility by contributing across the stat sheet with five assists, five rebounds, and two steals. The forward was particularly effective in the paint, consistently finding good looks close to the basket while also demonstrating his playmaking ability.
Lock Haven's bench provided crucial support, contributing 37 points to the victory. Dyllon Scott sparked the reserves with 21 points, including a stellar 8-for-8 performance from the free-throw line and three made three-pointers. Collin Jones added 13 points off the bench, connecting on all three of his three-point attempts.
The game's turning point came midway through the first half when Lock Haven used a 12-2 run to build a commanding lead. The Bald Eagles' largest advantage reached 25 points at 70-45 with 6:52 remaining in the second half, effectively putting the contest out of reach.
Goldey-Beacom was led by Zayon Marsh's 16 points and 10 rebounds for a double-double effort, but the forward struggled with efficiency, shooting just 8-of-14 from the field while missing all five of his free-throw attempts. The Lightning's offensive struggles were evident throughout, as they shot just 40.7% from the field and committed 20 turnovers.
Lock Haven capitalized on those miscues, scoring 21 points off turnovers while limiting their own giveaways to just seven. The Bald Eagles also dominated the rebounding battle 37-39 despite being slightly outrebounded, thanks to their ability to create second-chance opportunities.
The visitors' three-point shooting kept them in control throughout the contest, connecting on 9-of-23 attempts (39.1%) compared to Goldey-Beacom's 6-of-18 (33.3%). Mike Knouse contributed eight points with two three-pointers, while Dyson Harward added seven points in limited minutes.
For the Lightning, Omari Banks provided nine points and six rebounds off the bench, while Ayshion Centeno chipped in nine points with four rebounds. However, their collective 50% free-throw shooting and inability to generate consistent offensive rhythm doomed their chances.
The victory marked Lock Haven's ability to bounce back and play complementary basketball, with 14 assists on 31 made field goals. Their defensive pressure forced numerous turnovers and limited Goldey-Beacom's offensive flow throughout the evening.
Lock Haven's comprehensive performance in all facets of the game demonstrated the team's potential when firing on all cylinders, setting a positive tone as both teams continue their early-season campaigns.