Shippensburg University’s men's basketball team fell short Saturday afternoon, losing to Lock Haven 75-83. 

The 7-16 Raiders had a slow start, falling behind by 11 points in the first five minutes of competition. However, Shippensburg continued to battle, narrowing the gap to just four points shortly before halftime.

This brief run was sparked by freshman guard Jaydon Smith, who contributed 20 points, and junior forward Donovan Hill, who posted his third double-double with 17 points and 14 rebounds.

With the Shippensburg women’s basketball team hosting its annual Alumni Day and Pink Out Game, the stands were packed with fans. However, Hill was not fazed by the larger crowd.

“There was no pressure tonight,” Hill said. With the stands packed, it’s just excitement. They give us a lot of energy,” Hill said.

Though the men’s basketball team does not host an alumni game of its own, it is still important for its players to acknowledge the players who came before them. Even though Donovan Hill transferred to the university just last year, he is aware of Shippensburg’s basketball history and is not afraid to show his respect.

“As an alum, I look up to Dustin Sleva. He’s someone my coaches have shown me a lot of film on, and he’s someone I want to model my game after. His ability to post up big and still play on the perimeter is something I want to do,” Hill said. Dustin Sleva is a Shippensburg University men's basketball alum and currently the Raiders' all-time leader in points, rebounds, and double-doubles.

The two players share a similar build, making it easy to see why coaches want Donovan to look up to such an electrifying player.

Hill plans on continuing to build on his success by staying in the gym and relying on his teammates for support.

The Raiders will return to action Wednesday at 8 p.m. against West Chester at Heiges Field House.

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