Montgomery College’s men’s basketball team remained winless in the early season (0-2) as an intense comeback fell short in the second half against Allegheny College.

The Raptors, playing without two starting guards–D’Angelo Vaughn and Joseph Serrano–struggled in the first half offensively, mustering only six points within the first seven minutes of play.

Not only did MC’s shorthanded roster have trouble scoring, but they also allowed a number of easy buckets through the lane on the defensive end. All too often, Allegheny had uncontested lay-ups, putting the Raptors in a 25-35 hole at halftime.

Although head coach James Bryson and his staff made solid second-half adjustments on both ends of the court, the early deficit was too much for the Raptors to overcome, as Allegheny kept pace with their scoring down the stretch.

However, their coach believes they can carry some of the late momentum into the next game.

“We were very very lethargic. I think the guys had a little bit of success, and it made them realize they could get back into the game. We had a lot of new guys out there who hadn’t played before…They’ll be much more ready next time,” said coach Bryson.

The team also received praise for their improved effort on the boards, as rebounding was the key factor in the Raptors’ comeback.

“We started the first ten to 15 minutes a little slow. I don’t know what happened, but you guys got on the glass and did a much better job,” said Bryson.

It’s important to realize just how big an impact scorers such as Vaughn and Serrano have on the outcome. They’ll both return for the next game, thus the Raptors’ offense should be more efficient.

“D’Angelo Vaughn is dying to get back on the court,” said assistant coach Anthony Washington.  When he gets back, trust me, he’ll be ready, and this team will get on a roll.”

Bryson also had some words of encouragement for his inexperienced team after a hard-fought loss.
“You don’t always win in life. You’re going to lose a job, lose a family member, get a flat tire…something’s going to happen. The measure of a true man is through adversity.”

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