Northeastern men’s basketball (9-6, 1-1 CAA) fell to the Hofstra Pride (9-6, 1-1 CAA) Jan. 4 37-55 after failing to execute simpler plays in their second conference game of the season. 

Following their close win over the University of Delaware (8-7, 1-1 CAA) Jan. 2, the Huskies came out with fire in the first half of Saturday afternoon’s game but after unlucky chances and sloppy passes that resulted in turnovers, it became clear its short winning streak would not last. 

The absence of sophomore guard William Kermoury and junior guard Masai Troutman due to injuries was felt hard, with the Huskies only securing 19 points in the first half and 18 in the second. 

Junior guard Rashad King notched 11 points in the first period, leading both teams. The Huskies ended the half with a narrow lead at 19-18, but the score was tied before the second half started as Hofstra received a free throw for a technical foul with junior guard LA Pratt entering the game late. 

The Huskies fought to secure their baskets but between Hofstra’s strong defense and the occasional ball tipping on the edge, Northeastern was unable to secure any points three minutes into the half. 

Sophomore guard JB Frankel attempted a three-pointer but it didn’t sink with 17 minutes remaining. As a team, the Huskies only succeeded in three of their 25 three-pointer attempts throughout the game, a collective 3-point field goal percentage of 12%. 

Despite their ineffective offensive opportunities, the Huskies were largely able to hold their ground against Hofstra for the majority of the second half. 

But Northeastern began having communication troubles in the second half as well, leading to passes to the hands of Hofstra players on two occasions. These misunderstandings led to a three-minute drought of points that was finally broken by junior center Youri Fritz when he notched one of his two free throws.  

As Hofstra started to run away with the score, the Huskies were able to take back more control, keeping the Pride in check. 

Junior guard Harold Woods stole the ball from Hofstra and made a layup on his breakaway, tightening the score 29-32 with 10 minutes left in the game. 

After King notched two free throws, Northeastern relaxed, a basket away from a tie. The moment was broken when Hofstra fought for the rebound off a Husky field goal attempt. When sophomore guard Jean Aranguren managed to break away and notch another basket and a free throw after a foul, the difference widened considerably. With eight minutes to go, the added points brought the scoreboard to 30-38, giving Hofstra room to breathe. 

King was able to snatch a three-pointer, but in the next possession for Hofstra, so did sophomore guard Cruz Davis, bringing the score to 33-41. 

Northeastern was unable to catch up with Hofstra, ending in a loss 37-55. 

The Huskies play the Towson Tigers (6-9, 1-1 CAA) Jan. 9 at 7 p.m.