TAKOMA PARK, Maryland - The Salem men's basketball team came up short in a home matchup with Washington Adventist earlier this season, and they got their chance for a bit of revenge this evening. They traveled to the greater Washington DC area for an evening bash with the Washington Adventist Shock. Salem found their revenge with a 77-74 victory in Takoma Park.

In the first half, the game played out similarly to the first contest with the Shock. Back in November, Salem found itself in a defensive battle all night. Tonight, it was more of the same. Washington Adventist held a slight lead for much of the period, but Salem found some big shots from Stan Smith as they have for much of the year to keep pace with the Shock. With the game close to the halftime break, Justin Tene hit two key free throws in just seconds to go, and Salem went into the intermission with a tight 37-36 lead. 

In the second half, Salem found their offensive groove and played some solid team basketball. The Tigers had various scorers in the period as Fope Okuyiga, Markanthony Fidelis, and Ian Hardy all had key scoring plays for the Tigers to maintain their sim lead. Despite the offensive output, Washington Adventist kept the game close the whole way. However, Salem was able to lock it down defensively and maintain their control of the contest. After that, Rodney Smith would score the final point of the contest from the free throw line in the final seconds to cement the 77-74 win. 

On the stats sheet, The Tigers were led by Fope Okuyiga with an impressive 18 points. Stan Smith and Justin Tene each contributed 13 points, and Rodney Smith rounded out the Tigers in double figures with 12 points. 

This win makes three straight for head coach Brett Rector's squad, and they will be looking to break past the .500 mark on Monday, January 9th when they take on Penn State-Greater Allegheny at 4 PM at T. Edward Davis Gymnasium.