Navy secured a 78-51 victory over Loyola University Maryland on Wednesday night at Reitz Arena, propelled by a decisive first-half run that set the tone for the rest of the game.
Loyola started strong and led 11-5 with early contributions from Emmett Adair and Tyson Commander. However, Navy responded quickly, using defensive pressure and efficient shooting to shift momentum in their favor.
The Midshipmen went on a 10-0 run midway through the first half, turning a two-point deficit into an eight-point lead. Austin Benigni initiated the surge with a three-pointer, followed by Cam Cole’s fast-break triple after a Loyola turnover. Aidan Kehoe added a layup, and Navy’s defense forced several empty possessions from Loyola. Jinwoo Kim capped off the stretch with consecutive baskets as Navy’s lead grew to double digits.
By halftime, Navy led 43-25 after shooting over 53 percent from the field and nearly 47 percent from beyond the arc in the opening period. Benigni contributed 13 points in the first half, while Kehoe was effective on the boards.
Navy maintained control throughout the second half, extending its lead to as many as 27 points while keeping up its defensive intensity. Kim finished with a game-high 25 points, matching Benigni’s total of 25. The Midshipmen shot 54.7 percent for the game and made ten three-pointers. They also outscored Loyola in points in the paint by a margin of 34-22.
Adair led Loyola with 13 points as the Greyhounds dropped to an overall record of 11-19 and a Patriot League mark of 7-10. Navy improved to 24-6 and stayed atop the league standings.
