Entering a highly anticipated start to the 2024-2025 season, the Red Barons showcased their resilience and skill, coming away with two impressive victories that start off the season with a 2-0 record. After defeating Finger Lakes Community College 82-77 on Wednesday night, the Red Barons followed it up with a hard-fought 83-78 win over Cayuga Community College on Saturday, the team's confidence and momentum is soaring as they move into week two of the season.

Wednesday Night: A hard fought, road win over Finger Lakes Community College

As FLCC jumped out to an early 12-5 lead, the Red Barons turned up the pressure, leading to a series of transition points. Coach Sugamosto then turned to the bench to build on the momentum. Freshman Guard, Siyani Arthur, came off the bench and finished with a game high 29 points and 2 steales. Sean Paige also came off the bench and contributed 12 points, 8 rebounds, and 3 steals. Sophomore forward, Decoursey Corley, finished the contest with 16 points and 8 rebounds.

Corning's aggressive defense stifled FLCC's shooters, holding them to just 20% from 3PT range. The defensive pressure, combined with a fast-paced offense, helped Corning open up an 18-point lead in the latter portion of the second half.

Coach Sugamosto praised his team's defensive effort after the game, saying, "Our guys were invested in turning them over. We forced them into tough, quick shots, and when we got the ball, we moved it up the floor and scored in transition. It was a total team effort tonight."

Saturday afternoon: An exciting, home opening victory vs. Cayuga Community College

On Saturday, the Red Barons hosted a conference matchup against Cayuga Community College. This home matchup was full of transitional and fast paced baskets, with both teams pushing the tempo and creating a high-scoring spectacle. In what was a game full of runs by both teams, the Red Barons would establish double digit leads, and maintained the leads until the final buzzer.

Sean Paige, who had been excellent on Wednesday, turned in another key performance, contributing 13 points and 13 rebounds, and hit key shots down the stretch to help his team hold off Cayuga. Freshman Forward Ray Baugh also played a crucial role, finishing with 10 points and 16 rebounds off the bench. 

Siyani Arthur (12 points), Cassius Moore (14 points) and Decoursey Corley (13 points & 8 rebounds) all played a crucial role in the Red Barons win.

In the final moments, Jalen Zachery orchestrated the offense with poise and efficiency. Zachery finished the game with 7 points and 4 assists. The Red Barons dug deep in the final minutes as Cayuga made a late run. In the end, the Barons would capitalize on numerous free throw attempts, sealing the 5-point home victory.

"It was a grind, but our guys kept their composure to seal the victory," Coach Sugamosto said after the game. "We didn't panic when they made their runs. Instead, we stayed focused and made free throws when we needed them."