PRINCESS ANNE, Md. — Hampton shook off a slow start and closed strong on Tuesday night, using timely free throws and balanced scoring to earn a 74-68 win over longtime rival Maryland Eastern Shore at Hytche Arena. The victory marked the Pirates’ eighth win in the last 10 meetings against the Hawks.

Josh Ogundele powered Hampton (3-5) with 17 points and a career-best night at the line, knocking down 9 of 11 free throws. Michael Eley added 13 points and sparked the decisive first-half surge, while Jalyke Gaines-Wyatt chipped in 12. Xzavier Long contributed eight points and dominated the glass with a game-high 11 rebounds.

The Pirates shot 50 percent from the floor and converted 25 of 33 free throws—production that proved crucial as UMES (3-6) mounted a late charge. The Hawks were led by Zi

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