Hackettstown, N.J. — The Centenary University men's basketball team punched its ticket to the Atlantic East Conference Playoffs on Wednesday night, edging Saint Elizabeth University, 90–87, in a thrilling contest at the John M. Reeves Student Recreation Center. The Cyclones honored their 5 seniors before the game: Justin Carbone, Daniel Falk, Roman Carone, Devin Strickland, and Michael Salvatore. 

With the victory, the Cyclones secured a postseason berth in a tightly contested Atlantic East race, rallying from a four-point halftime deficit to earn the program-defining win in front of the home crowd.

Centenary trailed 41–37 at the break before erupting for 53 second-half points, using aggressive drives to the basket and timely defensive stops to pull ahead late. The Cyclones held off a final Saint Elizabeth push in the closing minutes to seal the win and the playoff spot.

Junior Kenneth Rankin delivered a standout performance, leading all scorers with 28 points onf 8-of-17 shooting and going 10-of-14 from the free-throw line. Rankin's scoring presence and composure down the stretch proved pivotal in the closing moments.

Senior Justin Carbone added 17 points, connecting on 3 three-pointers, while Jasir Lane posted a double-double with 15 points and 10 rebounds, anchoring the Cyclones on the glass. Devin Strickland chipped in 13 points, and Darnelle Forrest provided key minutes off the bench.

Centenary finished the night shooting 47.6% from the field and 37.5% from beyond the arc, while capitalizing at the free-throw line in the final minutes. The Cyclones also pushed the tempo effectively, generating offense in transition and limiting Saint Elizabeth's second-chance opportunities.

With the win, Centenary secures its place in the Atlantic East Conference Tournament, continuing a strong late-season push as postseason play approaches.

Next Game: Centenary will travel to face Immaculata on Saturday, February 14, in its next Atlantic East Conference matchup.