Four Loyola men’s basketball players scored in double figures, leading the Greyhounds to a 78-65 win over Bucknell on Saturday. It marks the team’s first victory over the Bison since the 2017 season and their third win in a row. They now sit at 4-8 in the Patriot League and 12-13 overall. 

Loyola’s last victory over Bucknell was a 78-77 nail-biter that took place on Feb. 15, 2017. Bucknell had won the last six matchups since then.

Andrew Kostecka ’20 led the way with 20 points, while KaVaughn Scott ’20 scored 12 points in 22 minutes. Golden Dike ‘23 and Santi Aldama ‘23 each scored 11 points.

Loyola used a stellar 52.5 shooting percentage and a season-high 46 free throw attempts to outscore the Bison, who shot just 31.3 percent from the field.

After a back-and-forth first six minutes, Loyola gained the lead and never let it go. They held a strong 40-27 lead at halftime, but the Bison offense showed signs of life in the second half. They whittled down the Greyhound lead to 58-57 with just under five minutes to go.

Loyola got a timely three-pointer from Kostecka, which sparked an 11-1 burst to give the Hounds a 69-58 lead. They secured the win with a standout performance from the free-throw line, shooting 25 for 31 on free throws in the second half.

The teams played to an even 38-38 in the second half, but Loyola’s strong first half gave them the 78-65 victory.

The Greyhounds will look to continue their winning streak this Wednesday in a conference match-up at American University. Tip-off is at 7 p.m.

Featured Image Courtesy of Loyola Athletics.