Boston University rides Michael McNair’s 28 points to beat Bucknell 82-69 in Patriot League play

Terriers seize control early and never trail after taking the lead in the first half

Boston University used a decisive first-half run and a high-volume perimeter attack to secure an 82-69 win over Bucknell on Saturday, Feb. 14, in a Patriot League men’s basketball matchup in Boston.

Guard Michael McNair led all scorers with 28 points, helping the Terriers build a 42-27 halftime advantage and hold off Bucknell’s second-half push. The victory moved Boston University to 12-15 overall and 7-7 in league play, while Bucknell fell to 8-19 overall and 5-9 in the Patriot League.

How the game turned: a first-half cushion and a second-half response

Boston University took the lead with 14:49 remaining in the first half and did not trail again, establishing control with shot-making and defensive pressure. McNair scored 18 points before the break as the Terriers opened a 15-point halftime margin.

Early in the second half, Boston University extended the lead to 50-31, highlighted by an 8-0 burst that effectively reset the game’s margin after intermission. Bucknell outscored BU 42-40 in the second half, but the Bison were unable to erase the deficit created in the opening 20 minutes.

Key performers and statistical profile

• Michael McNair: 28 points, 7 rebounds; 9-of-18 shooting and 6-of-11 from three-point range.

• Sam Hughes: 15 points, 9 rebounds and 4 steals, contributing on both ends.

• Chance Gladden: 14 points and 6 assists, with 11 of his points coming after halftime.

• Bucknell leaders: Achile Spadone scored 19 points with 3 steals and 2 blocks; Amon Dörries and Jayden Williams added 15 points apiece.

Team-wide, Boston University generated much of its advantage at the foul line and from beyond the arc. The Terriers made 13 three-pointers and went 21-for-23 at the free-throw line. Bucknell finished 9-for-27 on threes and 6-for-10 at the line.

Patriot League context

The result tightened the middle of the Patriot League standings. Boston University’s 7-7 conference record kept the Terriers in a cluster of teams around .500 in league play, while Bucknell remained in the lower half of the table at 5-9.

Boston University’s formula combined first-half separation with efficient scoring late, limiting Bucknell’s ability to convert its improved second half into a comeback.