MIDDLESEX COLLEGE HOLDS OFF FURIOUS RALLY TOP TOP ESSEX CC 76-74

Sean Williams scored 26 points and Hashim Nadir hit two free throws in the waning seconds to lead Middlesex College to a crucial 76-74 win over Essex CC.

The Colts had led by as many as 17 points, but a furious comeback by the Wolverines in the second half set up the thrilling finish.

The victory was the sixth straight for Middlesex College, who is now 19-4 on the season.

Middlesex came out strong and built a 41-24 lead in the first half. However, Essex CC came storming back in the second half and set up a thrilling final minute that saw the Colts pull out the victory.

Middlesex was up 74-72 with less than a minute remaining, but the Wolverines hit a layup to tie the game. The Colts missed a potential go-ahead jump shot and layup, but Nadir corralled the rebound to maintain possession. He was fouled by Essex as they went for the ball, sending him to the free throw line in a 74-74 game.

Nadir hit both shots leaving Essex time for one more possession. After a timeout, Essex missed a potential shot at the buzzer, giving Middlesex the exciting win.

Alfeny Javier Concepcion (Sophomore/Perth Amboy, NJ) had a double-double with 18 points and 10 rebounds. Tristin Harcourt (Sophomore/Newark, NJ) also had a double-double, going for 12 points and 11 rebounds. Harcourt also led the Colts with five assists and two blocks.

Middlesex has three divisional games remaining and currently controls its own destiny as they vie for a Garden State Athletic Conference and Region 19 regular season title. They travel to Lackawanna on Saturday for their next game, which is scheduled to tip off at 3:00PM.