Hornets Sting Rival Delaware in Overtime Thriller

The Delaware State Hornets men's basketball team secured a dramatic 75-72 overtime victory against their in-state rival, the Delaware Blue Hens, on December 6th. This hard-fought win, their third of the season, provided a significant morale boost for a team that had been struggling, having lost eight of their previous ten games, none against Division I opponents. Coach Stan Waterman expressed immense satisfaction not just with the win, but with the renewed energy and enthusiasm displayed by his team.

The intense game saw Delaware force overtime with late baskets, but Delaware State maintained control in the extra period, with clutch plays from Ademar Santos and Ponce James sealing the victory. James, who finished with 21 points, highlighted the importance of the win against their rivals. Delaware, hampered by injuries and 18 turnovers, also saw a crucial ejection of Nnanna Njoku for a flagrant 2 foul, which Coach Martin Ingelsby felt impacted their performance.

This victory was Delaware State's first over Delaware under Coach Waterman, who is a former Blue Hens point guard. The Hornets, whose nonconference schedule included tough opponents like Temple and Syracuse, hope this win will serve as a catalyst for future success. The rivalry game also marked the debut of Nnanna Njoku for Delaware, a transfer from Villanova, though his impact was limited by the ejection.