Amiri Stewart leads Sacred Heart to key victory over Boston University
- Sacred Heart secured a victory over Boston University with Amiri Stewart leading the game by scoring 20 points.
- Iona Gaels, struggling at 2-7, aimed for their first road win against Sacred Heart.
- The matchup is crucial for both teams as they look to improve their standings in the conference.
On December 6, 2024, in Fairfield, Connecticut, the Sacred Heart Pioneers hosted the Iona Gaels following a recent victory against the Boston University Terriers. Sacred Heart entered the matchup with a record of 3-5, having played competently at home with a victory in their only home game thus far this season. Their recent triumph came with standout performances, particularly from Amiri Stewart, who scored 20 points in the game against Boston University, demonstrating significant contribution to his team's overall performance. In contrast, the Iona Gaels, who boasted a record of 2-7 prior to the game, were looking to improve their performance on the road, as they were currently winless with a record of 0-3 when away from home. The team has struggled significantly this season, ranking last in key shooting statistics, particularly from 3-point range, which stood at 30.5%. Their offensive struggles were evident where they average only 66.1 points per game, which is notably inferior when compared to the average points Sacred Heart gives up, at 75.9 points per game. The matchup between these two teams marked their first meeting this season within the conference framework. Sacred Heart struggled against opponents with a winning record, holding a disappointing 1-3 record in such encounters. Despite these challenges, the Pioneers looked to capitalize on their home advantage against an Iona squad that has faced considerable setbacks this season. Amiri Stewart’s performance was particularly vital as he averages 12.5 points and contributes significantly to his team’s offense, showcasing his growth as a player. Heading into this contest, the stakes were high as both teams aimed to rally and gain momentum heading deeper into the season. With the home crowd expected to support Sacred Heart, and the Gaels needing a decisive win to turn their season around, the game presented a critical opportunity for both to assert their positions within the conference and bolster their respective standings.