Diggins scores 34, guiding UMass past La Salle 78-55

PHILADELPHIA – Rahsool Diggins delivered an impressive performance, scoring 34 points as the Massachusetts Minutemen triumphed over La Salle with a score of 78-55 on Sunday.

Diggins showcased remarkable shooting accuracy, going 13 for 20 from the field, including 7 for 13 from beyond the arc. His exceptional performance proved crucial for Massachusetts, who now hold a record of 11 wins and 13 losses, with a 6-5 standing in the Atlantic 10 Conference. Jaylen Curry contributed significantly with 13 points while also grabbing six rebounds. Daniel Hankins-Sanford rounded out the scoring for UMass with 10 points, having made 4 of 10 field goals and converting 2 of 3 from the free-throw line.

On the other side of the court, Corey McKeithan led the La Salle Explorers with 17 points as they fell to a record of 12-12 and 4-8 in the conference. Daeshon Shepherd added 10 points and secured seven rebounds, while Tunde Vahlberg Fasasi also contributed 10 points to the Explorers’ total.

The Minutemen took control of the game with just 4:22 left in the first half and maintained their advantage for the rest of the match. Diggins scored 15 points before halftime, setting up Massachusetts for a 35-31 lead at the break. The team further extended their lead to 59-41 in the second half, buoyed by a strong 9-0 scoring streak. In the latter period, Diggins continued to dominate, leading all scorers with another 19 points to close out the victory.

Looking ahead, both teams are set to play on Wednesday. Massachusetts will face Davidson at home, while La Salle heads out to challenge Saint Joseph’s (PA).