Brockport, NY - The SUNY Brockport men's basketball team defeated the Houghton Highlanders, 88-76, on Friday at the Jim and John Vlogianitis Gym. Brockport now holds an overall record of 8-8, with a conference record of 6-1 in the Empire 8 after defeating the Houghton.

Nathaniel Gordon emerged as a standout at The Vlog, scoring a career-high 25 points while hitting 8 of 11 baskets and an impressive 7 of 8 from beyond the arc. Zachary Rice notched a double-double with 10 points and 12 rebounds, marking his second double-double in the last three games.

Colby Jordan contributed significantly in playmaking with a team-high 5 assists. Emilio Nabli made his presence felt defensively, recording 2 steals in his performance. Nabli also scored 10 points to go with 14 from Alex Tavarez and 10 more from Jakai White.

In the first half, SUNY Brockport established a strong lead over the Highlanders, finishing with a 39-25 advantage. Alex Tavarez opened the scoring for Brockport with consecutive free throws and added a jumper to maintain early momentum. Nathaniel Gordon and Jacob Oka contributed significantly, with Gordon hitting two 3-pointers, while Oka scored multiple layups. 

Emilio Nabli and Jakai White also played key roles, with Nabli assisting White on a fast-break layup and White adding five points from a layup and a jumper. Brockport's defense was effective, totaling 26 rebounds and forcing several turnovers, helping them maintain control throughout the half.

In the second half, SUNY Brockport capitalized on several key plays to maintain their lead against the Highlanders. Zachary Rice contributed significantly with a layup  and later secured an offensive rebound leading to another successful layup. 

Nathaniel Gordon was instrumental from beyond the arc, hitting a 3-pointer assisted by Rice, and also added two free throws. Alex Tavarez and Milo Scheve added to the scoreboard with Tavarez converting a fast-break layup and Scheve scoring from the free-throw line, helping Brockport secure a 49-point half.

The Highlanders attempted to get back into the game late, turning a 20-point deficit into a 10-point gap late in regulation. However, there was not enough time to mount a comeback. Brockport held on through the finish line for the 12-point victory at home.

The Golden Eagles are back on their home floor Saturday for a 4pm tip-off against The Alfred University Saxons for more Empire 8 play.