Peter Suder shines as Miami (Ohio) edges Mercer 75-72

In a competitive basketball matchup in Cypress Lake, Florida, Miami (Ohio) faced off against Mercer on November 26, 2024. The RedHawks managed to secure a close victory over the Bears with a final score of 75-72. Peter Suder led Miami with a significant contribution of 16 points, showcasing his skills not only as a scorer but also with six rebounds and four steals. Miami demonstrated a strong first half, entering into halftime with a 35-30 lead, which was bolstered by Eian Elmer’s 15 points. This performance set the foundation for the RedHawks' overall success in the game. The second half featured Suder’s contributions resulting in him scoring 12 points, aiding Miami in maintaining their lead. Eian Elmer further added to the scoreboard, finishing the game with 15 points, while Antwone Woolfolk added 13 points and contributed six rebounds. The collective effort from the team was crucial in countering Mercer’s efforts, which included Ahmad Robinson scoring 19 points and providing six assists. Brady Shoulders also contributed significantly to Mercer’s effort with 14 points and four steals. Miami's tactical play was evident as they continued to control the game, despite some mounting pressure from Mercer, who fought hard to come back but fell short in the closing moments. The win improved Miami's record to 4-2 while Mercer dropped to 3-4. The game demonstrated Miami's resilience and ability to perform under pressure, an important aspect as they move further into the season and aim for conference play. As the season progresses, both teams will reflect on this game to address their strengths and weaknesses. Miami's victory not only boosts their morale but heightens their confidence heading into upcoming games against tougher opponents. This match serves as a reminder of how pivotal a few key performances can be in determining the outcomes of closely contested basketball games in college athletics.