Vikings Come Up Short Against Cardinals, 75-61

THE BASICS

Wesleyan (Conn.), 75 vs. Salem State, 61

Records:

Wesleyan University Cardinals (7-2)

Salem State University Vikings (7-3)

Location: Twohig Gymnasium - Salem, Mass..

Date: December 11, 2025

THE LEAD

Salem, Mass.— The Salem State men's basketball team battled the Wesleyan Cardinals but was unable to overcome a significant first-half deficit, ultimately falling 75-61. Despite a game high 26 point performance from guard Jamel Walker, the Vikings struggled offensively, suffering just their third loss of the season.

HOW IT HAPPENED

The Vikings started the contest strong, taking an early 2-0 lead on a jump shot by Ali Barry (So.), assisted by Wil Martinez (Sr.). However, the Cardinals quickly answered, tying the game 2-2 and pulling ahead using a pair of free throws to make the score 6-4. Wesleyan began to assert control midway through the first half, pushing their lead to 16-9 following a three-pointer by Oscar Edelman. Although the Vikings saw scoring runs, including a three-pointer from Jamel Walker (Fy.) and a dunk from Raheim Orleans (Fy.), Wesleyan maintained a comfortable lead, closing the first half ahead 37-28.

Wesleyan immediately extended its lead in the second half, hitting a three-pointer from Zach Wolinski to make the score 40-28. The Cardinals maintained this double-digit advantage throughout the final 20 minutes. Salem State fought to narrow the gap; Jamel Walker scored a layup and a free throw sequence to cut the deficit to 41-38. Ali Barry followed up with a crucial three-pointer assisted by Walker, trimming the score to 50-44. Late in the game, Omri Merryman (Jr.) hit a three-pointer assisted by Barry , and Walker continued to score with consecutive layups and free throws. However, Wesleyan’s consistent offense proved too much, securing the 75-61 victory.

INSIDE THE NUMBERS

Jamel Walker led the Vikings in scoring with a game-high 26 points. Walker was highly efficient, shooting 9-for-16 from the field, and was perfect from the free-throw line, sinking all seven of his attempts. He also contributed 5 rebounds, 2 assists, and a team-high 3 steals.

Ali Barry was the only other Viking in double figures, scoring 15 points, including three successful three-pointers. Barry also added 4 rebounds, 3 assists, and 2 steals.

Raheim Orleans led the Vikings on the glass with a game-high 12 rebounds (4 offensive, 8 defensive) while adding 11 points. Orleans also recorded 1 steal and 1 block.

The Vikings struggled with shooting percentage, finishing 21-for-64 (32.8%) from the field and 5-for-21 (23.8%) from three-point range. However, Salem State excelled at the free-throw line, hitting 82.4% of its attempts (14-17 FTM-A). Wesleyan was led by Sam Pohlman (16 points, 8 rebounds) and Oscar Edelman (15 points).

UP NEXT

Wrapping up 2025 game action, the Vikings head up the Northshore to take on local foe, Endicott College, as they face the Gulls for an early afternoon 3 p.m. tipoff.

By Jack Zenger

Photo Credit: Lilly Nunez '25