The Old Westbury Panthers won a close game against the United States Merchant Marine Academy Marines in Kings Point on February 11th, 69-65, after a strong second-half comeback. This victory broke their two-game losing streak and gave them momentum for the rest of their conference games.

The Panthers struggled early, falling behind 0-7, but they fought back. Kellen Leake hit a three-pointer and Zion Williams made a mid-range jumper, getting the Panthers within two points. They kept closing the gap and tied the game at 18-18 after back-to-back strong drives by Amadi Lee Kane.

The first half was full of lead changes. Although the Panthers had some turnover issues, Jamari Williams scored consecutive baskets to briefly give them the lead. The Marines hit several three-pointers, including a big “and-one” play, ending the half with a 39-28 lead. Zion Williams led the Panthers with 11 points at the break, while the Marines’ Castle scored 15 points.

The Panthers came out strong after halftime. Amadi Lee Kane’s free throws started the comeback, and the Panthers tied the game 46-46. Zion Williams gave Old Westbury their first lead of the second half with a strong drive to the basket. The game remained close, with the score switching back and forth. In the final minutes, Kellen Leake hit a clutch three-pointer, and Zion Williams nailed a contested step-back three to give the Panthers a 64-62 lead with 1:30 left to go.

In the last 39 seconds, the Panthers led 68-65. Amadi Lee Kane made the first free throw and missed the second, but Joel Ofori grabbed a crucial offensive rebound to secure the win.

Zion Williams led the Panthers with 21 points, 8 rebounds, and 5 assists. Amadi Lee Kane finished with 19 points and 7 rebounds, and Kellen Leake added 13 points. For the Marines, Zalescik had a double-double with 21 points and 10 rebounds.

Looking ahead, the Panthers will need to keep this momentum as they try to make a playoff run, with their game against St. Joseph’s University Brooklyn on February 15th.