ST. MARY’S CITY, Md. (EMU Athletics) – The Royals opened up 2026 on the road, making the trip up to Maryland to take on St. Mary’s College of Maryland.

The Seahawks led by 10 at the half, EMU battled back to tie the game in the second half, but SMCM used a 15-12 run in the final two minutes, including hitting 11 of 15 free throws, to pick up a 67-62 win.

Records: EMU 3-8, 0-2 ODAC | SMCM 5-6, 1-0 United East

Highlights
First Half
After a Jazen Walker layup gave EMU an early lead, the Seahawks went on a 9-0 run to take a 9-2 lead. SMCM would push their lead to as many as 14, with the latest coming with 5:20 left in the half, but a back-to-back jumpers from Isaiah Carr and a three from Kai Johnson, sandwiched a Seahawk free throw, pulling the Royals within eight. A 4-0 St. Mary’s run pushed their lead back to 12 before Aaron Brooks connected on a jumper with five seconds left, making the score 31-21 at the break.

Second Half
Hezekiah Brown opened the half with a basket, pulling EMU to within single digits, and starting an 18-9 run over the next 9:53, to pull within one, 40-39. In that span, Brown had seven points while Brooks and Donovan Arnason each added five. After a Seahawks jumper, a three from Brooks tied things at 42 with 9:27 to play. Unfortunately for the Royals, despite outscoring SMCM in the second half, the Seahawks outpaced EMU 27-23 over the game’s final 9:47 to pick up the win.

Statistical Leaders
Points: Brooks (22), Arnason (12), Carr (10)
Rebounds: Carr (8), Zach Bailey (7)
Assists: Brooks (4)
Steals: Brooks (3)

What’s Next
This game wrapped up EMU’s non-conference schedule. The Royals are back in action on Wednesday when they welcome in the University of Lynchburg to Yoder Arena. Tipoff against the Hornets is set for 5:00 pm.

— EMU Athletics —