Fast Start Lifts Middlesex Past Essex in 105–93 Tuesday Night Clash

Edison, NJ - The Essex County College men's basketball team dropped a tough road contest Tuesday night, falling 105–93 to Middlesex College at the Physical Education Center in Edison.

Middlesex came out firing early, opening the game with a dominant first half to take a 53–32 advantage into the break. The Wolverines struggled to slow down the Colts' offensive rhythm in the opening 20 minutes, digging themselves a deep hole despite generating quality looks.

Essex showed grit and urgency in the second half, pouring in 61 points after halftime and matching Middlesex basket for basket over the final stretch. The Wolverines shot an efficient 56.7 percent from the field on the night and attacked the glass aggressively, finishing with 15 offensive rebounds, but the early deficit proved too much to overcome.

Ethan Laquindanum led all Essex scorers with 20 points on an efficient 9-for-12 shooting, while Rodney Willis Jr. recorded a strong double-double with 16 points and 10 rebounds. Christian Hampton provided a spark off the bench, tallying 16 points and six assists, and Jaden Reid added 14 points to round out a balanced offensive effort.

Despite the loss, Essex continued to battle until the final buzzer, showing resilience and depth as multiple players contributed on both ends of the floor.

The Wolverines will look to bounce back on Saturday when they travel to New York to face SUNY Orange. Tip-off against the Colts is scheduled for 2 p.m.