Howell, Williams Record Double-Doubles as Fayetteville State Falls to California (Pa.) in NCAA Regional

ERIE, Pa. — Fayetteville State’s postseason run came to an end Saturday night as California (Pa.) pulled away in the second half to defeat the Broncos 96–83 in the NCAA Division II Atlantic Region Quarterfinal at the Highmark Events Center.

The loss closes the season for Fayetteville State with a strong 23–7 record after a year that included a CIAA championship and a 17-game winning streak entering the NCAA Tournament.

The Broncos controlled much of the first half and kept the game tight through consistent scoring and strong bench play. Terrell Williams knocked down an early three-pointer, while Ezekiel Cannedy provided an offensive spark with a pair of shots from beyond the arc. Romeo Aquino added a transition three to help Fayetteville State take the lead midway through the half.

Larry Howell contributed inside with a tip-in and free throw to tie the game at 14–14. Late in the half, Cannedy hit a three-pointer from the right wing to give the Broncos a 45–42 advantage before California (Pa.) answered with a basket at the buzzer to cut the deficit to 45–44 at halftime.

The momentum shifted early in the second half. After Aquino scored to push the Broncos ahead 47–44, California (Pa.) responded with a decisive run. Jordyn Buchanan hit a three-pointer, Bryson Lucas converted an and-one opportunity in transition, and Brayden Reynolds added a layup to give the Vulcans the lead.

Lucas continued to lead the surge with a three-pointer and two breakaway dunks, helping California (Pa.) extend the lead to 72–54 with just over 12 minutes remaining.

Fayetteville State attempted to rally behind key plays from its offense. Cannedy connected on another deep three, Darius Boben scored through contact, and Kenneth Brayboy added multiple dunks late in the game. However, each push by the Broncos was met with timely scoring from the Vulcans to maintain control.

Lucas sealed the game with another basket in the closing minutes, while Reynolds added a free throw in the final minute to secure the victory.

Cannedy led Fayetteville State with 20 points and four three-pointers. Howell recorded a double-double with 15 points and 10 rebounds while adding four assists, and Williams finished with 13 points, 15 rebounds, and four assists for another double-double performance.

Boben added eight points with several second-chance baskets, and Brayboy contributed eight points with late dunks. The Broncos shot 35.3 percent from the field and 30 percent from three-point range but stayed competitive thanks to 23 second-chance points and 34 points from the bench.

California (Pa.) was led by Lucas, who scored 33 points on 14-of-21 shooting while grabbing 16 rebounds. Buchanan added 23 points with six three-pointers, and Reynolds finished with 13 assists to guide the offense.

Despite the loss, Fayetteville State closes the season with one of the program’s most successful campaigns, highlighted by a conference championship and a deep postseason run that showcased the Broncos’ depth and resilience.