The USM Men’s Basketball team hosted Saint Joseph’s College for the 31st annual Costello Cup, presented yearly to the winner of the match between the two schools. The Costello Cup “honors the late Dr. Richard ‘Doc’ Costello, former USM Athletic Director and long-time basketball coach for both the men’s and women’s programs,” according to Southermainehuskies.com.
This year, the rivalry between the two schools had extra fuel added to the fire, as it was the first time former Saint Joseph’s College and now current USM Men’s Basketball coach Rob Sanicola played his former team. Sanicola coached the Monks since 2003, until becoming the new head coach for the Huskies this Fall. He earned seven Coach of the Year honors during his time with Saint Joseph’s College.
The game itself started with an incredible performance from range, as sophomore Chance Dixon made his first seven three point field goal attempts in a row. Dixon went on to tie the USM all-time record for most three point field goals made in a game, making 9-15 three point field goals. The record is held by former Husky Joe Cawley in 1989 against Plymouth State. Dixon finished the game with a career-high 32 points, leading the Huskies in scoring as they won 86-74.
He was joined by standout performances from junior Marcus Christopher, 13 points and six rebounds, and Cody Hawes whose 11 points, five rebounds, four assists and two blocked shots helped the Huskies battle to the victory. Hawes notably made the clutch blocks in the second half, as well as an important put-back rebound.
Southern Maine closed out the game on a 10-3 run that resulted in their 37th overall win over the Monks, and the lifting of the Costello Cup. The Cup was presented by current Director of Athletics Al Bean to the Men’s Basketball team as they celebrated at center court.
The Huskies win saw them improve to 4-4 on the year, as their next matchup is a Little East Conference game hosting Rhode Island College on Wednesday, Nov. 8 at 7:30 p.m. The game can be viewed in person or online at littleeast.tv.