Albany Great Danes shock Columbia Lions with an impressive 88-73 victory

In Albany, New York, on December 4, 2024, the Albany Great Danes faced off against the Columbia Lions in a competitive basketball game. The Great Danes emerged victorious with a score of 88-73, improving their season record to 6-3. Justin Neely led Albany with an impressive performance, scoring 18 points and grabbing 13 rebounds, showcasing his vital role in the team's success. This game was particularly significant for the Columbia Lions, who entered it with an impressive record of 8-0 and were looking to extend their winning streak. Throughout the match, Albany displayed strong offensive and defensive play. DeMarr Langford Jr. contributed significantly to the victory, making 6 out of 7 shots from the floor and finishing with 12 points. Additionally, Byron Joshua scored 12 points, with an efficient shooting performance that included 4 of 9 from the field and two successful three-pointers. The cohesive effort from Albany’s players was crucial in overcoming Columbia, whose leading scorer, Blair Thompson, managed 14 points but could not secure the win for his team. The defeat marked the end of Columbia's eight-game winning streak, a hard blow for a team that has been performing well throughout the early season. Geronimo Rubio De La Rosa added 11 points for the Lions, but the team struggled to find rhythm against a relentless Albany defense. This game not only highlighted the resilience and skills of the Albany Great Danes but also served as a turning point for Columbia as they regrouped to analyze their performance and strategize for future matches. Such an outcome can dramatically reshape the momentum in college basketball, especially for teams like Albany that are vying for better positioning in their conference. The match attracted significant attention, given the pre-game expectations and the performance disparity between the two teams leading up to this day. It also emphasizes the unpredictability of sports, where any team can rise to the occasion and produce results that defy previous predictions. The Great Danes’ impressive display could serve as a confidence booster as they prepare for the next phases of their season.