Posted: Dec 03, 2025
Essex County Holds Off Middlesex in a 72–70 Nail-Biter
Middlesex College
70
Essex County College
72
| Final | 1 | 2 | T | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Middlesex College | 31 | 39 | 70 |
|
Essex County College | 32 | 40 | 72 |
Newark, NJ | Essex County College edged Middlesex 72–70 in a tense matchup that stayed tight from start to finish. The Wolverines led by just one at halftime, 32–31, and never found much breathing room as Middlesex answered every run.
Essex leaned heavily on Ethan Laquindanum, who delivered a steady double-double with 17 points and 10 rebounds. He set the tone inside, helping Essex control the glass and limit second chances.
The difference, though, came from the bench. Carl Matala and Emard Babacap combined for 20 points, with Babacap grabbing seven offensive boards that created crucial extra possessions.
Middlesex pushed to the final buzzer, getting a last look to tie or win it, but Essex's defense held firm as the shot bounced off the rim. The Wolverines secured the rebound—and the win—surviving a hard-fought, possession-by-possession battle.
Essex will host DIII #4 UCNJ on Thursday, December 4th.