No. 1 Salem Rolls Past Sussex, Improves to 16-0
CARNEYS POINT, NJ - The top-ranked Salem Community College men's basketball team continued its dominant run on Saturday afternoon, cruising past Sussex County Community College, 91–53, to improve to 16-0 on the season.
The Mighty Oaks, ranked No. 1 in the country, controlled the game from the opening tip, using balanced scoring, defensive pressure, and depth to pull away early and never look back. Salem built a commanding lead in the first half and extended it after the break, holding Sussex to just 53 points on the afternoon.
Jarrell Little led the way for Salem with a game-high 23 points, adding four rebounds, four assists, and four steals in an all-around performance. Saai d Lee followed with 17 points while contributing four assists, and Nasseem Wright added 12 points, seven rebounds, three assists, and two blocks.
Salem's depth was once again a major factor. Idris Rines provided a strong spark off the bench, finishing with 15 points and eight rebounds, while Jahseir Sayles chipped in nine points. Quade'air Smith controlled the glass with a team-high 11 rebounds to go along with five points.
The Mighty Oaks' defense forced turnovers throughout the game and limited Sussex's scoring opportunities, allowing Salem to dictate tempo and keep fresh legs on the floor.
With the win, Salem heads into the holiday break undefeated at 16-0 and firmly established as the top team in the nation.
Salem will return to action after the holiday break on Tuesday, January 6, when the Mighty Oaks host Union College of New Jersey at the DuPont Fieldhouse. Tip-off is scheduled for 6:00 p.m.