Dylan Guenther’s 9th Game-Winning Goal Rattles Sabres In 5-2 Utah HC Victory

Published on by Sports Radio ServiceLeave a comment

Utah Hockey Club’s Dylan Guenther (11) celebrates a third period goal against the Anaheim Ducks on Wed Mar 12, 2025 at the Delta Center. On Thu Mar 20, 2025 Guenther scored the go ahead goal against the Buffalo Sabres at the Delta Center in Salt Lake City (AP file photo)

By Tom Walker

SALT LAKE CITY–Buffalo unraveled late in the third period, scoring their own goal for Utah on a delayed penalty to seal the Utah Hockey Club’s 5-2 sixth home win in the past eight contests.

The Utah Hockey Club returned to home ice on Thursday night after a three-game road trip where they won against Wild Card contender Vancouver but lost to Seattle and Edmonton.

Logan Cooley gave Utah the first lead of the game at 17:27 of the first period on a snap shot which got past Buffalo netminder James Reimer, his 19th goal of the season, assisted by Nick Schmaltz and Clayton Keller. With 11 seconds remaining in the opening frame, Sabres forward JJ Peterka beat Karel Vejmelka on the power play to tie things up, assisted by Jason Zucker and Tage Thompson.

Utah would regain the lead at 11:50 of the second period as defenseman Mikhail Sergachev fired a shot from the blue line which flew through traffic for his career high 12th goal of the season, assisted by Jack McBain.

Early in the third period Buffalo would tie the score again on an unassisted short-handed breakaway goal by Ryan McLeod. Utah forward Dylan Guenther recovered a rebound in front of the Sabres net at 14:13 of the period and scored his 25th of the season on a wrist shot for what would become his ninth game-winning goal of the season, assisted by Barrett Hayton and Michael Carcone.

With just over a minute remaining in the game, Utah forward Kevin Stenlund was whistled for high-sticking against Bowen Byram. As play continued with Buffalo still controlling the puck, Tage Thompson missed the stick of Rasmus Dahlin on an attempted pass which banked off the dasher boards and straight into the empty Sabres net to give Utah a 4-2 lead.

Stenlund, the last Utah player to touch the puck before the penalty, was credited with his 11th goal of the season. With James Reimer still sitting on the Buffalo bench, Mikhail Sergachev launched a shot the full length of the ice to make what had been a tight game a 5-2 blowout. The goal added to Sergachev’s career high for his 13th of the season, assisted by winning goaltender Karel Vejmelka, his first assist on the year.

In the locker room, Sergachev talked about the final moments of the game. “Obviously, that was lucky. To get those lucky bounces, you gotta work hard, and I think that stretch in the third, we worked hard and had a lot of chances to score. We didn’t score, and we got those two, so I guess we’ll take them.” With regard to Vejmelka making a career high 12th consecutive start, Sergachev added, “He’s our guy. He’s there when we need him. It showed tonight. He’s unbelievable.”

Dylan Guenther talked about the importance of Thursday night’s bounce back win following the previous game’s drubbing against the Oilers. “It gets a little bit of our confidence back. That was a tough ending [in Edmonton], and it’s just one game that’s kind of the beauty of it. We have to play a lot, but we just had to make sure that we got back on track. It was a step in that direction.” With regard to his ninth game-winner, Guenther commented, “That’s pretty cool, maybe a bit of a coincidence too, just getting lucky on some of them. Those are the times of the game that you want to play in. Those are the fun times. So, it’s nice to be recognized.”

Head coach André Tourigny also talked about his team’s response to the loss in Edmonton. “We talked briefly about it as a team. It’s what happened and let’s learn from it. We moved on and I think in our situation, it’s easier because the game tonight was huge. That was a really important game for us with the scores everywhere around the league on top of it. We didn’t know that before, but we know that the team we’re fighting to win, they’re fighting too. They want to win their game, so we need to keep getting points. There are a lot of games left, there’s a lot of hockey left, and we need to be consistent and win on a regular basis.” Speaking of how the club is fighting to make the playoffs, Tourigny said, “There’s no doubt about it. For me, I think we had it all year long, and we had moments where we talked about how much pressure we’re putting on ourselves and how tough it was to manage it. All season long we’re really demanding ourselves, we believe in ourselves, and we know we can achieve great things. We talk about the process of a young team to live with that expectation and that pressure and so on and so forth. It’s a lot of learning. It’s learning on steroids, and we need to keep going and keep doing our job at that point and stay in the hunt. We need to wear opponents down and that’s the way it will be. Every point is important.”

Utah returns to action on Saturday at home for a 3:00pm afternoon game against the Tampa Bay Lightning.

Earlier in the day, Utah Hockey Club issued the following press release with the headline, “Smith Entertainment Group Offers $1 Subscription to UtahHC+ as Utah Hockey Club Seeks Inaugural Season Playoff Spot.”

Thursday, Smith Entertainment Group introduced a limited-time, $1 subscription option for UtahHC+ – the official streaming service of Utah Hockey Club – that includes the ability to stream all of the team’s remaining 14 regular season games and any games Utah would play during the first round of the NHL’s Stanley Cup playoffs, if they qualify. The offer is open to fans across Utah, along with six neighboring states, inviting them to tune in and support Utah Hockey Club as they continue their push for the playoffs during a historic inaugural season. Utah is currently four points out from securing a wild card position in the NHL Western Conference and would be the 13th franchise to qualify for the playoffs in their first year in the NHL.

Fans can secure the $1 “Push for the Playoffs” UtahHC+ subscription offer now through March 31 at 11:59 P.M. MT by visiting http://www.segplus.com. In addition to live games, the subscription includes access to video-on-demand (VOD) content, game replays, game-specific alternative broadcasts, and other engaging behind-the-scenes content. Users who take advantage of this limited-time $1 offer will have access to the platform from the date of subscribing until May 14, 2025.

Utah’s remaining regular season NHL games conclude on April 15 against the St. Louis Blues. The NHL’s Stanley Cup playoffs are expected to begin in the second half of April, with a full schedule of games available in the coming weeks. .”

More than 16.8 million plus hockey fans can subscribe to UtahHC+ including all 3.5 million Utahns, as well as those living in Arizona, Idaho, Montana, New Mexico, Wyoming, and parts of Nevada.

Fans can learn more about subscription availability and sign up for the promotional offering by visiting http://www.segplus.com.

Coby White, Huerter Power Bulls Past Kings in Sacramento

Published on by Sports Radio ServiceLeave a comment

Malik Monk scored 34 during the matchup against the Bulls on Thursday (Photo: Sacramento Kings on X)

By Jeremiah Salmonson

SACRAMENTO — The Sacramento Kings were back in action Thursday night, playing the second night of a back-to-back. They welcomed the Chicago Bulls to Golden 1 Center for a 7 PM PST tip-off, marking Kevin Huerter’s return to Sacramento.

Huerter’s return felt bittersweet for Kings fans. He was a key part of the original Beam Team that pushed the Golden State Warriors to seven games in the playoffs just a couple of years ago. However, both the team and Huerter fell short of expectations in his final two seasons in Sacramento. On Thursday, it was all smiles and hugs for Huerter as he greeted media members, coaches, fans, and Kings owner Vivek Ranadivé.

The Bulls entered the game ninth in the Eastern Conference with a 29-40 record, while the Kings held the same position in the West at 35-33. Chicago came away with the win, defeating Sacramento 128-116.

The Kings started strong in the first quarter, catching fire from beyond the arc. Malik Monk hit five threes and Trey Lyles added four as Sacramento outscored Chicago 39-28 while shooting 65% from deep. Monk led the way with 15 points in the quarter, and Lyles added 12. The Bulls struggled to contain Sacramento’s attack, with Tre Jones leading Chicago with six points early.

In the second quarter, the Kings maintained the pressure but couldn’t stretch their lead. Chicago edged Sacramento 27-25 in the period, cutting the deficit slightly. The Kings led 64-55 at the break, playing solid basketball through the first half. Monk paced Sacramento with 19 points at halftime, while Nikola Vučević led the Bulls with 11.

The third quarter saw a shift in momentum. Chicago came out energized and outscored Sacramento 37-25, seizing control of the game. The Kings lost their edge, and the Bulls began to believe they could steal a road win.

In the fourth, the Bulls kept their foot on the gas. They outscored the Kings 36-27 in the final frame, closing out the win behind big performances from Coby White and Kevin Huerter. White finished with 35 points, and Huerter added 25 in his Sacramento return.

After the game, Doug Christie echoed a message he’s repeated during the team’s recent struggles. “Unacceptable,” Christie said at the postgame press conference. “There’s a lot there that’s unacceptable, but you can’t let people come into your house and just do what they want. The energy necessary to do what we need to do was not there tonight.”

Key Performers:
Malik Monk led the Kings with 34 points.

Trey Lyles added 22 points on 6-of-11 shooting.

DeMar DeRozan scored 22 points for the Bulls, becoming the 27th player in NBA history to surpass 25,000 career points.

Up Next:

The Sacramento Kings stay home to take on the Milwaukee Bucks on Saturday at 7 PM PST at Golden 1 Center.

Sharks fall 3-1 in Cagnoni’s NHL debut

Published on by Sports Radio ServiceLeave a comment

San Jose Sharks vs Carolina Hurricanes on Thursday March 20th at SAP Center (via Dean Tait/Hockey Shots)

By Madison Montez

SAN JOSE–Coming into Thursday’s game, the San Jose Sharks were riding a one game losing streak. Their previous game was against the Washington Capitals, where the Sharks fell 5-1. Macklin Celebrini scored the lone goal.

Tuesday it was announced that the second leading defenseman Luca Cagnoni was recalled to the Sharks. In the AHL this season, Cagnoni has 13 goals and 34 assists, adding up to 47 total points. Thursday night, he was paired with 6’7 Vincent Desharnais. “Kind of been saying it all week since the call, but it’s pretty surreal” Said Cagnoni.

San Jose struck first at 13:00 of the first period. William Eklund scored his 15th goal of the season, after pending review. The goal was under review due to Eklund crashing the net, pushing the net off of it’s latches. Ty Dellandrea registered the lone assist.

Tonight, Eklund was paired on a line with Smith and Wennberg, a pairing that he hadn’t seen before. “I think I had a solid game today and we created a lot of chances, eventually those will go in.” Said Eklund.

On a turnover by Shakir Mukhamadullin in the corner boards, Carolina tied the game at 1 at 10:31. Seth Jarvis scored his 27th goal of the season, unassisted.

Carolina took the lead at 4:58. Sebastian Aho scored his 26th of the year. Jackson Blake and Brent Burns registered the assists.

Carolina extended their lead further at 14:18 when Sean Walker scored his 4th of the season. Taylor Hall and Shayne Gostisbehere registered the assists.

Hurricanes forward Mark Jankowski played in his 400th NHL game, an accomplishment in itself.

Sharks’ rookie goalie Georgi Romanov, in his first career start, recorded 26 saves on 29 shots.

Each team had multiple powerplay opportunities, each with 3. Neither team scored on the powerplay, both going 0-3. 3 of the penalties were hooking penalties.

THREE STARS OF THE GAME:

  • 1. Sebastian Aho, 1G
  • 2. William Eklund, 1G
  • 3. Seth Jarvis, 1G

“I think the first period breakouts was the issue but we cleaned them up. I think in the second, puck play and turnovers.” Said HC Ryan Warsofky.

The Sharks will be back in action on Saturday March 22nd against the Boston Bruins. The last time these two teams faced off was on January 20th, where the Sharks fell 6-3. Barclay Goodrow, Will Smith, and Fabian Zetterlund, all scored.

Headline Sports podcast Jessica Kwong: TV star Tracy Morgan hospitalized for food poisoning at Knicks game; Clippers head coach Lue out with bad back; plus more NBA news

Published on by Sports Radio ServiceLeave a comment

Saturday Night Live and 30 Rock comedian Tracy Morgan had suffered from food poisoning at Madison Square Garden in New York and had to go to the hospital. Morgan said he’ll be just fine and later took a picture of himself in the hospital. (photo by James L Edwards and Logan Bartlett Instagram)

Headline Sports podcast Jessica Kwong:

#1 Saturday Night Live and 30 Rock star Tracy Morgan got food poising on Monday night at the Miami Heat and New York Knicks game. Morgan got so sick he had to end up going to the hospital from the game. He had thanked fans for their concern and said that the Knicks are now 1-0 when he throws up on the court.

#2. Los Angeles Clippers head coach Tyroon Lue didn’t make himself available to the media after their game against the Cleveland Cavaliers as his back pain got worse. Lue has been suffering back pain this season and missed three games earlier this month. The Clippers were 2-1 without Lue in front of the bench and assistant Brian Shaw had to fill in beating the Sacramento Kings, Miami Heat but losing to the New Orleans Pelicans.

#3 Jessica, the Golden State Warriors rested their superstar Stephen Curry against one of the best teams in the NBA the Milwaukee Bucks on Tuesday night. Curry was 6-21, 20 points, seven assists, seven turnovers in the Warriors loss to the Denver Nuggets on Monday night a game that ended their seven game win streak. Curry has a lower back strain and it had been hampering him since taking warm ups before Thursday’s game against the Sacramento Kings.

#4 The Oklahoma City Thunder held out three starters for Wednesday’s game against the Philadelphia 76ers, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Jalen Williams, and Lu Dort. Isaiah Hartenstein is out with a sore back and Cason Wallace sore shoulder were questionable for tonight’s game. The Thunder in spite of the injuries had won three in a row previous to Wednesday night’s game.

#5 Washington Wizards forward Corey Kispert had thumb surgery for a torn ligament on his left thumb and will miss the rest of the regular season. The Wizards are expecting Kispert to make a full recovery and will be back for next season. Kispert injured the thumb Saturday against the Denver Nuggets in a game the Wizards won 126-123.

Join Jessica every other Wednesday for Headline Sports podcasts at http://www.sportsradioservice.com

Cal Bears/NCAA Tournament podcast Morris Phillips: Cal-MS State meet in the 4-Spokane Saturday in LA

Published on by Sports Radio ServiceLeave a comment

Notre Dame guard Sonia Citron (top right), forward Liatu King (left), battle for the ball with the Cal Bears forward Ugonne Oniyah bottom right in the ACC quarterfinals in Greensboro NC Fri Mar 7, 2025 (AP News photo)

On Cal Bears podcast Morris Phillips:

#1 Cal is in their first March Madness since 2019 and will be in the 4-Spokane. The Bears are No.8 as they face No.9 Mississippi State on Saturday for a 2:30pm PDT tip in Los Angeles.

#2 The Bears will be playing in a familiar place at USC Galen Center. Would it help playing in a building they used to go to every year?

#3 Cal head coach Charmin Smith said, “I’m thrilled” said Smith “I’m just really excited. We did a lot of work to get to the NCAA Tournament. I think we can bring a lot of fans to Southern California and it’ll be a great matchup.”

#4 Cal who had a 25-8 season celebrated at a watch party last Saturday. This is Cal’s best record since 2012-13 Cal had finished 32-4 that season.

#5 Cal took a tough loss to the Notre Dame Fighting Irish in the second round 73-64. Cal was the seventh seed in that tournament. The looking to rebound against Mississippi State Saturday. The Bulldogs are 21-11 and 6-6 on the road.

Morris Phillips does the Cal Bears podcasts Thursdays at http://www.sportsradioservice.com

Short-Handed Kings Rally to Upset East-Leading Cavaliers 123-119

Published on by Sports Radio ServiceLeave a comment

Malik Monk during the Kings vs Cavs game on Wednesday night (Photo: Sacramento Kings on X)

By Jeremiah Salmonson

SACRAMENTO–The Sacramento Kings came into Wednesday night’s game against the Eastern Conference-leading Cleveland Cavaliers short-handed, missing key players due to injuries and absences. The Kings were without Domantas Sabonis (ankle sprain), Jake LaRavia (illness), and Zach LaVine (personal reasons).

Before the game, Doug Christie emphasized the importance of trust as the Kings prepared to rely on a depleted rotation. “I think even with our guys prior to the other night, that was one of the things we were trying to establish,” Christie said. “For players that haven’t played, the message to them is to play the right way. It doesn’t matter the name on the back of the jersey, it’s about the name on the front.”

Togetherness and consistency, regardless of the opponent, have been key messages from Christie all season. On Wednesday, the Kings needed to embrace that fully to take down Cleveland—and they did just that, earning a hard-fought 123-119 victory.

The first quarter was brutal for the Kings offensively. They shot an abysmal 4-of-23 from the field and were outscored 22-15. Watching the game, it felt like a twilight zone moment, the shooting struggles were so bad that it was remarkable Sacramento trailed by only seven at the end of the period. On the other side, Cleveland wasn’t exactly in rhythm either, shooting 9-of-20 from the floor.

The Kings’ shooting improved in the second quarter, but it wasn’t enough to cut into the Cavs’ lead. Cleveland outscored Sacramento 34-32 in the period, extending its advantage to nine points at the half. The Kings had plenty to build on heading into the third, especially with the Cavaliers playing on the second night of a back-to-back. Despite their shooting struggles, Sacramento was down only single digits. Malik Monk led the Kings with 14 first-half points, while Ty Jerome paced Cleveland with 12. The Kings shot 34% from the field in the half compared to the Cavs’ 56%.

Sacramento completely flipped the script in the third quarter. Fueled by strong play on both ends from Devin Carter, the Kings surged ahead by as many as 11 points. However, Cleveland responded in what became a game of runs, clawing back to keep it close. The Kings outscored the Cavs 43-32 in the period to take a 90-88 lead into the fourth. The Golden 1 Center crowd erupted as Sacramento found its rhythm, putting Cleveland on its heels. With momentum on their side, the Kings needed to execute down the stretch to finish the job.

The final quarter was a battle, with both teams trading blows on both ends of the floor. In the end, the Kings did just enough plays to secure the 123-119 win, outscoring Cleveland 33-31 in the quarter. It was a complete team effort—every Kings player who logged more than seven minutes finished in double figures. Devin Carter and Trey Lyles combined for 29 points, with Carter providing a crucial spark off the bench. Evan Mobley led all scorers with 31 points in a losing effort for the Cavs. With the win, the Kings improved to 35-33, while Cleveland dropped to 56-13.

Doug Christie was clearly pleased with his team’s effort after the game. “Fantastic fight… that’s what Sacramento Kings basketball is all about. You bring that every single time.”

When asked how he got such an impressive performance from his team, Christie said, “That’s the performance I expect. The result may vary from time to time… but a high level of intensity and physicality, when you put on our jersey, that’s what is expected, and hats off to our guys.”

Keegan Murray echoed those sentiments. “It was a good win, especially after the week we had last week and with guys out tonight. It was a good team win against a very good team.”

After a rough stretch that saw them lose four straight, the Kings regained some confidence as they began a long homestand.

Key Performances

  • DeMar DeRozan led the Kings with 27 points.
  • Malik Monk scored 22 points on 8-of-18 shooting.
  • Devin Carter added 16 points, five rebounds, and three steals.

Playoff Picture

The Kings remain in ninth place in the Western Conference, sitting 3.5 games behind the Minnesota Timberwolves and LA Clippers for the seventh and eighth spots. They hold a three-game lead over the Phoenix Suns, who occupy the 10th seed.

Up Next

The Kings stay home to face the Chicago Bulls on Thursday at 7 PM PST in the second night of a back-to-back.

That’s Amaury News and Commentary: Giants selling ownership stake – What does it mean?

Published on by Sports Radio ServiceLeave a comment

Giants selling ownership stake – What does it mean?

That’s Amaury News and Commentary

By Amaury Pi-González

San Francisco Giants CEO Larry Baer says the money from the sale of 10% of the Giants will be used for ballpark improvements with the developments around the ballpark (San Francisco Chronicle file photo)

The San Francisco Giants dropped a 10% ownership stake in the franchise to the private equity firm Sixth Street, as reported today by the New York Times. The Giants did not confirm the specific share that it sold. Still, they said it was a “strategic partnership.” Larry Baer, Giants President, and CEO, said that the deal “allows (the Giants) to strengthen further our franchise on the field and in the community.”

That the Giants intend to use the money for improvements to Oracle Park and the Mission Rock mixed-use development surrounding the stadium, as well as the team’s Spring Training complex in Scottsdale. But it will not impact the team’s players’ payroll. And added, “This is about improvements to the ballpark, making big bets on San Francisco and the community around us, and having the firepower to take us into the next generation.” said Baer Major League Baseball Network revealed.

Major League Baseball and NBC Sports Regional Networks announced a new partnership today to stream games consumers for three MLB Clubs: Athletics (NBC Sports California), Giants (NBC Sports Bay Area), and Phillies (NBC Sports Philadelphia) – through MLB.TV during the 2025 season.

Fans in the Clubs’ home territories can now watch the networks’ game coverage live and on-demand with live pre-and post-game shows through the league’s streaming service, which is now entering its 23rd season. Talking about money for those who like to watch MLB games on TV.

This 2025 season- Packages for the A’s and Giants will be available monthly for $19.99 and can be bundled with MLB.TV’s out-of-market games for $39.99 a month. The Phillies package will be available for $24.99 monthly and can be bundled with MLB.TV’s out-of-market package for $44.99 per month.

Here’s a list of the current valuations for each MLB franchise as of late 2024,

1-New York Yankees $7.55 Billion

2 Los Angeles Dodgers $5.45 Billion

3 Boston Red Sox $4.5 Billion

4 Chicago Cubs $4.22 Billion

5 San Francisco Giants $3.8 Billion

6 New York Mets $3 Billion

7 Philadelphia Phillies $2.92 Billion

8 Atlanta Braves $2.8 Billion

9 Los Angeles Angels $2.7 Billion

10 St. Louis Cardinals $2.55 Billion

11 Houston Astros $2.42 Billion

12 Texas Rangers $2.4 Billion

13 Seattle Mariners $2.2 Billion

14 Toronto Blue Jays $2.1 Billion

15 Chicago White Sox $2.05 Billion

16 Washington Nationals $2 Billion

17 San Diego Padres $1.78 Billion

18 Baltimore Orioles $1.73 Billion

19 Milwaukee Brewers $1.6 Billion

20 Colorado Rockies $1.48 Billion

21 Minnesota Twins $1.46 Billion

22 Detroit Tigers $1.45 Billion

23 Arizona Diamondbacks $1.43 Billion

24 Cleveland Guardians $1.35 Billion

25 Pittsburgh Pirates $1.32 Billion

26 Cincinnati Reds $1.26 Billion

27 Tampa Bay Rays $1.25 Billion

28 Kansas City Royals $1.2 Billion

29 Miami Marlins $1.2 Billion

30 Oakland Athletics $1.1 Billion

Amaury Pi-Gonzalez – Cuban-born Pi-González is one of the pioneers of Spanish-language baseball play-by-play in America. Began as Oakland A’s Spanish-language voice in 1977 ending in 2024 (interrupted by stops with the Giants, Mariners and Angels). Voice of the Golden State Warriors from 1992 through 1998. 2010 inducted in the Bay Area Radio Hall of fame.

Barracuda shutout Gulls 4-0 in midweek morning matchup

Published on by Sports Radio ServiceLeave a comment

San Jose Barracuda vs San Diego Gulls on Wednesday March 19th at Tech CU Arena (via flickr.com/sjbarracuda)

By Madison Montez

SAN JOSE–The Barracuda took on the San Diego Gulls for a morning midweek matchup. The last time these two teams faced off was on Wednesday March 5th where the Barracuda fell in overtime. Former Barracuda captain Ryan Carpenter scored the overtime winner.

This time on Wed Mar 19th the Barracuda shutout the Gulls at Tech CU 4-0.

Tuesday it was announced that the second leading defenseman Luca Cagnoni was recalled to the Sharks. In the AHL this season, Cagnoni has 13 goals and 34 assists, adding up to 47 total points.

San Jose got started early, scoring at 9:38 of the first. Lucas Vanroboys scored his ninth of the season, coming off of a rebound shot. Danil Guschin and Braden Hache registered the assists.

Going 4 for 7 on the powerplay on Sunday against Tucson, San Jose kept the power-play momentum going. On their first opportunity of the game, Danil Guschin scored his 4th power-play goal of the season. Pavol Regenda and Rem Pitlick registered the assists.

San Jose further extended their lead at 14:23 of the second. Ethan Frisch scored his 3th goal of the season. Ethan Cardwell and Colin White registered the assist.

With 56 seconds left, Colin White scored an empty net goal to seal the win. Ethan Cardwell registered the lone assist. White and Cardwell both with their second point.

THREE STARS OF THE GAME:

  • 1. Danil Guschin
  • 2. Lucas Vanroboys
  • 3. Ethan Frisch

The Barracuda will be back in action on Saturday where they will travel to Bakersfield to take on the Condors. The last time these two teams faced off was on Wednesday February 26th where they fell 3-2. Thomas Bordeleau and Danil Guschin both scoring in the loss.

#2 Cardinal Charged the Matadors 87-70, in NIT Opener, Tuesday Night on the Farm

Published on by Sports Radio ServiceLeave a comment

Stanford Cardinal forward Maxime Raynaud led in scoring against the Northridge Matadors at Maples Pavilion in Palo Alto on Tue Mar 18, 2025 (Stanford Cardinal X photo)

By Michael Roberson

STANFORD, Calif. — The Second ranked (NIT SF Regional) Stanford Cardinal (21-13) utilized their Maples Magic to handle instate opponent California State University – Northridge Matadors (22-11) 87-70, inside their Maples Pavilion.

Stanford led from wire to wire and had an advantage in the first 20 minutes The Cardinal was in control from the first shot made by redshirt-sophomore guard Ryan Agarwal from beyond the arc. They never looked back after that bucket.

The home team also produced a 9-0 run, while playing stellar defense against the Matadors. Stanford forced CSUN to shoot 37% from the field and 22% from three in the first half.

Senior forward Maxime Raynaud led all players in scoring at recess. He compiled 15 points, 5 rebounds and an intimidating 4 blocks in the initial half of the contest. Raynaud was not only the leading scorer for both squads, he was the only Cardinal player in double figures.

Although Benny Gealer was in single digits at the midway point of the game, his second three-pointer was at the halftime buzzer, which gave them their then largest lead (17). Also during the beginning frame, Raynaud placed himself in Stanford’s Top 10 scoring list.

Senior forward Keonte Jones was the Matadors’ lone double-digit scorer (11) and was the key player attempting to keep Stanford in reasonable reach.

After the Stanford mid-game buzzer beater, Stanford led by 17 points, 46-29. All the momentum seemed to be in Stanford’s favor and the sting of that heart-wrenching loss in the ACC Tournament appeared to be a distant memory

The second half had a similar start as the first half did 20 minutes prior. This time it was freshman forward Donavin Young launching a trey, putting his Cardinal up by 20 immediately. They would add another point to that impressive scoring margin during the final half.

CSUN tried to make it competitive, as more players contributed from the scoring aspect. However, Stanford was able to hold on to their large lead and win by 17 points, 87-70. Out of the Cardinal’s 21 wins, 17 have been in the friendly confines of Maples Pavilion.

Raynaud posted another double-double, 22 points, 11 rebounds and 5 blocks. Oziya Sellers also scored 20 points, while Benny Gealer dropped 13 points and Jaylin Blakes chipped in 11 points and offered four assists.

The Matadors had four players scoring at least 10 points. Keonte Jones led CSUN with 18 points and 5 rebounds, while Scotty Washington tied Jones in rebounds while producing and tallied 17 points. Grady Lewis led his team in rebounds (7), while while producing 12 points, and Tyler Beard mustered up 10 points and team high four assists.

The Cardinal will play Round 2 of the NIT at Maples hosting Kent State, Saturday March 22 or Sunday March 23, time and date TBA at a later date,.

Stanford Cardinal podcast Michael Roberson Tue Mar 18, 2025: Stanford holds lead over Matadors in 87-70 win

Published on by Sports Radio ServiceLeave a comment

Stanford Cardinal forward Maxime Raynaud (42) led with 22 points against the Cal State Northridge Matadors at Maples Pavilion in Palo Alto on Tue Mar 18, 2025 (Stanford Cardinal X photo)

Stanford Cardinal podcast Michael Roberson:

#1 First half Michael the Cardinal were just scoring like it was going out of style. The Cardinal finished the first half with a 46-29 lead against the Cal State Northridge Matadors.

#2 Once again Maxime Raynaud led Stanford in scoring with 22 points, 11 rebounds and two assists. Raynaud has come through all season long.

#3 Oziyah Sellers finished second in scoring with 20 points and three rebounds. Sellers has come through for the Stanford offense all season long.

#4 In the second half after a rough first half the Matadors ended up tying the Cardinal in second half scoring 41-41 but Stanford would come away with a 87-70 win at Maple Pavilion.

#5 The Cardinal take on Kent State Golden Flashes this Sunday at Maples. The Flashes have had a good season at 23-11. This could turn out to be as rather contested game coming up?

Michael Roberson does the Stanford Cardinal podcasts at http://www.sportsradioservice.com