Holmes scores 23 points as MEAC champion Morgan State struggles to overcome Albany 69-65

Associated Press

Last update: November 13, 2009 - 9:08 PM

ALBANY, N.Y. - Senior guard Reggie Holmes scored 23 points as Morgan State opened its season with a 69-65 victory over Albany on Friday night.

The Great Danes (0-2), who lost their opener to Syracuse on Monday, led 60-56 with 7:01 remaining against the Bears, a first-round loser to Oklahoma in last season's NCAA Tournament.

Morgan State went ahead to stay, 61-60, with 4:23 to play after a 3-pointer by Holmes and a dunk by Dewayne Jackson after a steal.

Morgan State took a 27-16 lead with 6:36 left in the first half after a 10-0 run that included a 3-pointer and three free throws by Holmes. Will Harris answered with four baskets for Albany, including a 3-pointer, to help cut a 29-22 Morgan State lead to 33-33 at halftime.

Tim Ambrose scored 21 points and Harris added 18 to pace Albany of the America East Conference.

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