The Keene State men’s basketball team went up against the University of Boston-Massachusetts (UMass), taking away a 82-76 victory over the Beacons.

Junior Ty Nichols was once again on fire, making nine of 16 shots from the outside, 10 out of 13 shots from the free throw line, as well as adding to the list eight rebounds, two assists, and one block. Nichols totaled up 30 points, just two shy from his 32 point record.

First-year James Anozie also proved to be a threat, recording his third double-double in the last four games, as well as scoring 17 points, grabbing 11 rebounds, stealing the ball once, and blocking once.

First-year DeVon Beasley was able to put up ten points, four rebounds, two assists and two steal for the Owls. Overall the Owls shot at 49.1 percent, had 46 rebounds, 14 assists, 15 points on turnovers, 48 points in the paint, and 13 second chance points, tallying up the scoreboard for their victory.

The Owls were able to sweep that season series from UMass Boston, winning five straight series overall against the Beacons. The team was also able to hold UMass at a 38 percent for shooting, the Beacons only shooting 26 for 69. The Owls had some trouble with their long distance shots, but succeeded in their shots just behind the free throw line, shooting 22 of 30, which is about 73 percent. The Owls outscored the Beacons, dominating the glass 46-29, outscoring UMass 48-20 in the paint. With the team win also came some personal success with Nichols reaching his 1,315 career point.

In the first few minutes, the Owls gained a 7-0 advantage after first-year Sidi Diallo received a foul shot and Anozie made to layups after receiving the ball twice. The Beacons closed that gap quickly, scoring five out of the next seven points. Nichols quickly picked up the pace, scoring five quick points. Anozie also put up another layup for the Owls. The Owls continued to get leads, but the Beacons continued to catch back up. As the game progressed the Owls fought to obtain their lead, ultimately having a 77-71 lead over the Beacons in the last two minutes of the game.

Nichols’ two free throws with 44 seconds left in the game made it a three-possession game, but UMass fired back with a quick three to keep the Beacons in it. Diallo made one of two from the line and Beasley then sank two free throws as the Owls held on for the win.

The men’s basketball team will play home against Plymouth State on Wednesday, at 7:30 p.m.

Caroline Perry can be contacted at cperry@kscequinox.com