Men’s Basketball Falls To Owls In Conference Matchup On The Road

THE BASICS

Salem State, 77 vs. Westfield State, 84

Records: 

Salem State University Vikings (14-10) 

Westfield State Owls  (18-5)

Location: Westfield, MA

Date: Wednesday February 18, 2026 

THE LEAD — Despite a dominant third-quarter surge that helped the Salem State Vikings overcome an early deficit and seize momentum, Salem State was unable to hold off a late rally from the Westfield State Owls, falling 56–54 in a tightly contested basketball conference matchup on Thursday night.

HOW IT HAPPENED

The Salem State Vikings faced off against the Westfield State Owls in a competitive conference showdown that featured back-and-forth action throughout the night. Despite a strong offensive showing, the Vikings ultimately fell 84–77 as the Owls used a big second half to pull away.

Salem State opened the game with energy on both ends of the floor, putting up 38 points in the first half behind balanced scoring and strong ball movement. Westfield countered with 30 points in the opening half, keeping the score close as both teams traded baskets in an up-tempo battle.

The second half proved decisive. The Vikings added 39 points after the break, continuing to attack the rim and find opportunities in transition. However, the Owls erupted for 54 second-half points, capitalizing on key runs and timely shooting to swing momentum in their favor. Westfield's offensive surge after halftime allowed them to build separation in what had been a tightly contested matchup.

Salem State finished with 42 points in the paint compared to Westfield's 52, while the Vikings held the edge in fast-break scoring, 15–8. Defensively, Omri Merryman and Raheim Orleans each recorded two steals to help keep the game competitive. 

Although the Vikings battled throughout and kept the contest close during long stretches, Westfield's second-half production ultimately secured the 84–77 victory.

 INSIDE THE NUMBERS

Omri Merryman delivered a sensational performance leading the Vikings with 19 points and adding a team-high block on the night against the Owls for the Vikings. Raheim Orleans was equally dominant, also pouring in 15 points for the Vikings as the duo carried the offensive load. 

Jamel Walker contributed 14 points in a standout effort, while Tyrese Rho added 13 points, giving Salem State a relentless scoring presence that fueled the back-and-forth battle throughout the night.

UP NEXT: 

The Vikings look to take the road on Saturday February 21^st and head to North Adams, MA to take on the Trailblazers of MCLA for a MASCAC conference matchup. This would mark the last regular season game for the Vikings. Tip-off is set to start at 2:00pm.