The Royals defended home court in a high-scoring showdown Feb. 14, defeating Susquehanna University 99–92 at the John Long Center in front of an energized crowd.

The conference matchup delivered fast-paced action from start to finish. Sean Dallahan, men’s basketball’s team manager, said “Saturday was a tremendous team win against a very solid and disciplined Susquehanna squad. Our guys stepped up with several crucial defensive stops down the stretch that ultimately secured the victory. Offensively, we moved the ball and shared the success, with six players finishing in double figures.”

Halftime featured a special tribute to the 1976 national championship team, celebrating the program’s first NCAA title. Alumni, including Most Outstanding Player Jack Mayer, Paul Mernick, Ed Errett, Joe Conley, Billy Kenny, Ed Hooley, John Day Richie and John Williams, along with several of their former teammates, were recognized at center court. Before the ceremony began, the arena observed a moment of silence to honor members of the championship team who have since passed away. The tribute drew loud applause and a standing ovation from the home crowd, creating a meaningful pause, on a high-energy afternoon.

Scranton trailed early, 7–6, but quickly found their rhythm. A strong offensive surge sparked a 22–15 lead, as the Royals began pushing the tempo and attacking the basket with confidence. They found their rhythm quickly, because as a team, they have a special, family like bond, both on and off the court. They are connected and play as if they have been playing together their whole lives.

Dallahan said “What makes this group special is how much they genuinely care about one another. This is a tight-knit team that celebrates each other’s success, and that unselfishness shows on the court. That chemistry will be a major asset as we head into the Landmark Conference playoffs, especially with the level of competition this year.”

The offense continued to click midway through the first half, extending the advantage to 32–27 with just over six minutes remaining. Susquehanna refused to back down, however, keeping the game with a close score and emphasizing the opportunity for a possible come back.

The Royals held a 42–35 edge late in the half, but Susquehanna chipped away before halftime. Scranton entered the locker room with a narrow 45–41 advantage, setting the stage for an intense second half.

Second-half action proved just as competitive as the first. Scranton clung to slim leads of 57–56 and 61–60 as Susquehanna continued to apply pressure and keep the score tight. Each possession carried weight, with both teams trading baskets and defensive stops. The Royals eventually created breathing room that pushed the score to 78–68, fueled by accurate shooting and aggressive defense and offense.

Still, Susquehanna had one final push left in them. The visitors cut the score to 91–86 late in the game, forcing Scranton to execute in the closing minutes. With 22 seconds remaining and a 97–90 lead, the Royals called a final timeout to regroup and ensure proper execution. Composure at the free-throw line sealed the outcome, as Scranton closed out the 99–92 victory.

The win marked another strong conference performance for the Royals, who combined offensive firepower with disciplined defense and attack down the stretch. In a game defined by momentum shifts and high scoring, Scranton’s ability to respond under pressure ultimately secured the hard-fought home victory.

Dallahan said, “If we continue to stay connected, compete at a high level, and play our brand of basketball, we have the potential to make a strong postseason run.”