Harris drops 40 on Lehigh, Navy moves into first place

Chris Harris scored a career-high 40 points to help Navy to a win on the road against first-place Lehigh. (Navy photo)

The worse the weather, the better Navy plays.

Navy guard Chris Harris scored 40 points last night at Lehigh to help give the Mids a 85-78 win. Harris’ offensive outburst included eight 3-pointers and 12-for-13 shooting from the foul line. The victory was Navy’s third straight and moved the Mids into first place in the Patriot League after a so-so start in conference play.

The win was also Navy’s third straight game in front of tiny crowds. Only 329 people made it through blizzard conditions to watch the game in Bethlehem, Pa. Navy’s previous two victories in Annapolis had come on snow days as well, including a win last Friday in a game played a day early because of weather concerns.

Navy (12-12, 6-3) has now topped 80 points in three consecutive games. Besides the career night for Harris, guard O.J. Avworo continued his run of games with double-digit assists. The reigning Patriot League Player of the Week had eight points and 11 assists, marking the third straight contest he’s had 10 or more assists.

Here’s a game story.

Here’s the box score.

Army goes cold

Army’s offensive woes continued last night at home, as the Black Knights lost 70-56 to Holy Cross. The Black Knights shot a miserable 32 percent from the floor. It was the second time in three games they’ve shot less than 33 percent.

Senior forward Cleveland Richard led the Black Knights with 15 points. He was the only Army player to finish in double figures.

Army (13-10, 3-6) has now lost four of its last five games. With six games left, Army’s quest for their its winning season since 1985 is suddenly in serious jeopardy.

Here’s the box score.

Here’s a game story.