Essex Outlasts Rockland in Offensive Showcase

Newark, NJ- Essex County College delivered one of its most complete offensive performances of the season on Thursday night, defeating Rockland Community College 98–90 behind a deep, balanced roster that stepped up in every phase of the game.

The Wolverines jumped out fast, pouring in 54 first-half points and setting a tempo that Rockland struggled to match. And while the visitors made pushes throughout the second half, Essex's rotation proved too versatile, too relentless, and ultimately too much to overcome.

From the opening tip, Ethan Laquindanum played like the best player on the floor.
He attacked the rim, knocked down both of his threes, and crashed the glass with purpose—finishing with a dominant 22 points, 8 rebounds, 5 steals, and 4 assists on 8-of-11 shooting.

Every time Rockland tried to close the gap, Laquindanum answered—either by scoring or by making the right read to keep the offense flowing.

Essex's depth was the difference. Jaden Reid came in firing, slicing through the defense and finishing strong at the rim. His 15 points provided critical momentum during a second-half stretch when the Wolverines needed fresh energy. One of the game's biggest shifts came when Francis Demfack Tatanfack caught fire from deep. His 3 three-pointers and 14 total points stretched the floor and forced Rockland to open up its defensive coverage.

Blake Flores-Duncan contributed 7 points, including four big free throws, and helped steady the offense when pressure tightened.

The next game will be Saturday Dec. 12th at 2pm home against Raritan Valley Community College.