WASHINGTON — In a robust performance, Elijah Stephens scored 16 points, leading the second-seeded American University to a 72-62 victory over third-seeded Colgate in the semifinal of the Patriot League Tournament on Sunday. With this win, the Eagles advance to the championship, where they will face fifth-seeded Navy on Wednesday evening.
Stephens showcased his skills by going 5 for 9 from the field, which included 2 for 6 from beyond the arc, and was flawless from the free-throw line, hitting all four attempts. His efforts were complemented by Matt Rogers, who contributed 15 points and grabbed five rebounds. Colin Smalls also added to the tally with 12 points, shooting 5 of 10 from the field, and demonstrated accuracy from three-point range by making 2 of 3 attempts.
On the opposing side, the Colgate Raiders, who finished their season with a 14-19 record, were powered by Jeff Woodward. Woodward achieved a double-double, tallying 16 points and 12 rebounds. Teammate Jalen Cox also scored 16 points alongside securing two steals, while Chandler Baker rounded out the team’s top performers with 12 points and three steals.
Despite trailing at halftime with a score of 29-26, American University managed to overturn the deficit in the second half. Greg Jones initially provided an early spark with eight first-half points. However, it was Stephens who took command after halftime, netting 12 points as American outscored Colgate by 13 points in the final half to secure their place in the championship game.
