The Allegany College of Maryland Trojans walked into Saturday's matchup with Monroe University carrying a chip on their shoulder. Just a week ago, the Mustangs handed ACM a tough loss in New Rochelle, and the Trojans were determined to flip the script on their home court. For much of the contest, it looked like they might do just that.

The game opened with adversity for ACM as star guard Elijah Hall picked up two quick fouls within minutes of the tip. Forced to the bench for the remainder of the first half, Hall's absence created an opportunity for others to step up—and they did. Dorell Little Jr. and Darrien Ponder answered the call, igniting the Trojans' offense and keeping the energy alive.

Little was electric in the second half, adding in 12 points and dishing out five assists in only the second half (21 points) showcasing why he's becoming a cornerstone of ACM's attack. His ability to create plays and finish strong gave the Trojans hope during critical stretches. Ponder added timely buckets, while Jaylen Brown, Alex Byrd, Chicale Ward, and Justin Gilmore all contributed to the scoring effort.

The first half was a shootout, with both teams trading blows from beyond the arc. ACM's perimeter game was much sharper than the previous outing against County College of Morris, thanks to early hot hands from Qingfang Pang, Nick Williams, Nico Pena, Naceiar Kirksey, and Tavien Tyler. Still, Monroe's sharpshooting kept the Trojans on their heels.

One of the game's most memorable moments came midway through the second half when Chicale Ward drilled a clutch three off an inbounds play, cutting the deficit to 75–72 after an ACM timeout. The crowd erupted, sensing a momentum shift. But Monroe responded with poise, capitalizing on turnovers and second-chance opportunities to stretch the lead back out.

With 5:38 remaining, the Trojans trailed 78–74 in a tense back-and-forth battle. Both teams were in the bonus, and every possession mattered. Monroe's Nico Pena snagged a key rebound and converted an easy layup, forcing another timeout as the Mustangs pushed ahead 80–74. Hall checked back in with just over four minutes to play, hoping to spark a late rally, but foul trouble continued to haunt him. Monroe's Nick Williams buried a dagger jumper to make it 85–74, and despite a late three from Gilmore and a final deep shot from Hall, time ran out on ACM's comeback bid.

The Trojans ultimately fell 91–82, dropping to 4–4 on the season, but the fight they showed was undeniable. Coach Reams praised the team's resilience, noting the improved shooting and the leadership of players like Little, who kept ACM competitive against one of the region's toughest squads.

What's Next: The Trojans will look to regroup and build on the positives from this matchup as they prepare for their next challenge on Wednesday at their last homestand in 2025 versus D1 opponent and rival, Harford Owls. With contributions coming from across the roster and flashes of brilliance from their young stars, ACM remains a team to watch as the season unfolds.