ST. MARY'S CITY, Md. — Penn State Berks fell to St. Mary's (MD) 68-64 on Tuesday at Michael P. O'Brien ARC Arena. Despite forcing 20 turnovers and securing 40 points in the paint, the Nittany Lions were unable to overcome the Seahawks in this United East matchup.

Berks began the first half by establishing a strong defensive presence, forcing multiple turnovers and securing several defensive rebounds. Zach Prator contributed early with a jumper and two free throws to give the team an early 7-2 lead. The team maintained offensive momentum with Jaedon Mast hitting a 3-pointer, and Quentin Wright making a dunk, assisting in building a slight edge. However, the Seahawks responded with fast breaks and a series of 3-pointers, matching Berks' efforts. As the half closed, Isaiah Cotten set up Marquis Ferreira for a crucial 3-pointer, pulling the Nittany Lions level with St. Mary's at 28 apiece.

The Nittany Lions opened the second half with Isaiah Cotten scoring on a layup, assisted by Jaedon Mast, to briefly take the lead. Zach Prator contributed with a series of crucial plays, including a jumper and a layup, extending their advantage to 34–30 early in the half. Marquis Ferreira added to their momentum with a three-pointer, pushing the score to 37–32. As the half progressed, the Seahawks responded with a combination of three-pointers and free throws to reclaim and extend their lead. Despite efforts from the Blue & White, including a late surge from Quentin Wright with a fast-break layup bringing the score to 61–62, the Seahawks maintained a narrow edge. In the closing minutes, Berks continued to press, with Zach Prator scoring a layup to narrow the margin to 64–66. However, the Seahawks held their ground with free throws, concluding the game with a score of 68–64 in their favor.

Prator led with 18 points, converting 7 of 15 field goal attempts and adding one block. Wright contributed 13 points, making 6 of 8 shots, while also recording two blocks and two steals. Ferreira posted 11 points and dished out three assists, along with five rebounds. Josh Mingledolph provided a strong defensive effort with six assists and two steals, complementing his seven total rebounds.

Despite the loss, Penn State Berks has clinched a spot in the United East Championship Tournament. 

WHO'S NEXT
The Blue & White will conclude the regular season by traveling to face Cairn University on Saturday, Feb. 14. The game is set for 1 p.m. at Langhorne, Pennsylvania.

FOLLOW US
Fans can keep up with the Nittany Lions Athletics all season long on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube using the handle @BerksAthletics.