clock menu more-arrow no yes mobile

Filed under:

Stony Brook Seawolves Fall in the Second Round of the NIT

The regular season American East champs hung as long as they could, but it just wasn't long enough to earn another win in the postseason.

USA TODAY Sports

Outside of this game being a battle for a postseason NIT win, it was a little personal for Stony Brook. Freshman Jameel Warney was offered a scholarship to Iowa, but he opted to stay back east and play for Steve Pikiell at Stony Brook. Despite their 75-63 loss, I don't think he'd have it any other way.

Stony Brook finally found a team worth the challenge in the Hawkeyes. The beginning was a back and forth battle, just like their game against UMass. It was predicted to be a battle of defense, with Stony Brook holding their opponents to 38% shooting - making them the 3rd best in the nation for defense - but both teams shot at least 50% in the first half.

The second half is where the game got away from the Seawolves. They had a few defensive mishaps that left the Hawkeyes open for 3s. But neither team let up. Iowa was looking for their 18th home win while Stony Brook was looking for their 14th true road win and their second postseason win ever. Their current 13 road wins give them the most in Division 1 basketball.

Part of the reason the Hawkeyes grabbed the win was Roy Devyn Marble who had a game high 28 points, shooting 50% from the field. It also helped that they had 6'8" sophomore, Aaron White there for defense and rebounds. Stony Brook's top scorer was Jameel Warney who topped out at 17 points.

While the America East team was sent packing until next season, they shouldn't be ashamed of how they played. They fought hard and held out as long as they could, but in the end the Big 10 prevailed. The Hawkeyes take on the winner of the Virginia/St. John's match up on Sunday, March 24th.