Siena Snap 11 Game Losing Streak, Defeat Canisius

Perhaps a parade down Washington Avenue is in order? Maybe a shout out from Governor Cuomo might be in order? Dare we say can you make it two straight? Regardless of any jokes or snide comments, this much is true: the Siena Saints won a ballgame at the Times Union Center Friday night and snapped their 11 game losing streak.

Coming from behind, a rarity for sure, the Saints rallied for a 57-54 victory over Canisius, who was 10-5 entering the game.

It was a long time between victories for head coach Mitch Buonaguro's team. In fact, they last won a game beating Eastern Kentucky way back on November 17th.  That's 55 days, if my calculations are correct, between wins.

Once again, Siena fell behind and looked headed for a 12th straight loss. The Golden Griffins came into the ballgame only a half game out of first place in the MAAC. They led 34-27 at the break but were outscored 34-24 in the second half.

All hail Rakeem Brookins. He hit the winning shot, a three ball with two seconds left to snap a 54-54 tie. Siena actually fell behind 13 with just over 12 minutes left (45-32) but held the Griffins to a mere nine points the remainder of the game.

The Saints shot themselves back in the game, bombing threes from everywhere. Evan Hymes, Ryan Oliver and Brett Bisping all nailed big long range shots to aid the comeback.

Hymes led the Saints with 20 points. Brookins chipped in with 13. O.D. Anosike had nine points and seven boards.

Siena has a chance to make it two straight when they host 6-0 St.Peters at the Times Union Center on Sunday afternoon, a 2:00 p.m. tip.