Tufts lost both its games in the fifth annual New England Big 4 Challenge at Cousens Gym this past weekend, falling to Salem State on Saturday before losing to Brandeis in the consolation game on Sunday.
Babson went on to beat Salem State 101-87 on Sunday afternoon to capture its first Big 4 title.
The Jumbos finished the weekend with a 5-4 record on the season and a sour taste in their mouths. They led for almost the entire game against Salem State before the Vikings made a late push, and a last-second three-pointer by senior tri-captain guard Kwame Firempong hit the front rim to conclude an 81-78 defeat.
Then, against Brandeis, Tufts again squandered a halftime edge. The Judges pulled away in the final minutes to win 90-82.
It was a frustrating weekend for a team looking to head into the holiday break with some momentum. The players believe they need to increase their level of focus going forward.
It's not an energy thing," senior tri-captain forward Andrew Dowton said. "I think early in the season we had a little trouble with that. We've worked that out. It's more a focus thing now."
The Jumbos are still working to adjust as they play with an altered lineup due to injuries. Sophomore big-man Tom Palleschi was diagnosed with an enlarged aorta in the preseason and can no longer play basketball
