Callaghan leads Mystics to semifinal win over Chargers

Source: UNBSJ Seawolves

The MSVU Mystics secured a decisive 91-74 victory over the Crandall Chargers on March 1, 2025, at the G. Forbes Elliot Athletics Centre, advancing to the ACAA Championship final. 

MSVU took control early, outscoring Crandall 23-19 in the first quarter behind Adam Callaghan's 8 points, including two three-pointers. Crandall's Luca Del Bosco kept his team close with 7 points in the quarter. The Mystics extended their lead in the second quarter, outscoring the Chargers 26-19. Jaxon Smith and Isaac Matheson combined for 14 points, while Jaydan Smith facilitated the offense with 5 assists. Marc Hofer led Crandall with 8 points in the quarter, but MSVU took a 49-38 lead into halftime.

The third quarter saw MSVU pull further ahead, outscoring Crandall 21-15. Callaghan and Jaxon Smith continued to shine, while Isaiah Cromwell-Wright added 6 points off the bench. Crandall's Del Bosco and Hofer fought hard, but MSVU's defense forced 5 turnovers, converting them into 8 points. By the end of the third, MSVU led 70-53.

In the fourth quarter, Crandall outscored MSVU 21-19, but it wasn't enough to close the gap. Hofer and Del Bosco combined for 12 points, but MSVU's composure at the free-throw line, led by Cromwell-Wright and Matheson, sealed the win. A late three-pointer by Callaghan capped off the victory.

For MSVU, Adam Callaghan led the way with 22 points, including 4 three-pointers, while Jaxon Smith added 19 points. Isaac Matheson contributed 17 points, 4 rebounds, and 4 assists, and Jaydan Smith filled the stat sheet with 8 points, 7 rebounds, and 10 assists. For Crandall, Luca Del Bosco was the standout performer, finishing with 24 points, 3 rebounds, and 3 assists. Marc Hofer added 22 points, 6 rebounds, and 4 assists, while Devon Glenn chipped in 7 points and 7 assists.

MSVU shot an efficient 45.9% from the field and 89.5% from the free-throw line, while Crandall struggled with 35.3% shooting from the field and 78.3% from the line. The Mystics dominated in assists (20 to 17) and steals (10 to 9), while Crandall held a slight edge in rebounds (32 to 33). MSVU's ability to convert turnovers into points and their balanced offensive attack proved to be the difference in the game.

With this win, MSVU advances to the ACAA Championship final to face the winner of UNBSJ and Holland College. Crandall's season ends, but their effort, led by Del Bosco and Hofer, kept them competitive throughout the game.