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Mighty Oaks Down Lazers 93-77 in Battle at the Dome

SYRACUSE, N.Y. – Feb. 26, 2024 – The JMA Wireless Dome glowed green in the Syracuse skyline Sunday, Feb. 25, when the ESF Mighty Oaks triumphed over the Onondaga Community College Lazers with a decisive 93-77 victory. The Battle at the Dome commenced at 7 p.m., showcasing an intense face-off between the two SUNY men's teams. Doors swung open at 6 p.m. for the free-admission game. 

Before tip-off, ESF fans enjoyed a lively pre-game tailgate at the Gateway Center. The festivities included a team Meet and Greet, lawn games, snacks, and photo opportunities with Oakie Acorn. Leading the spirited crowd across the street to the Dome, Oakie ensured the crowd was ready to cheer on the Mighty Oaks.

 “We’re excited to be in the Loud House and give this opportunity to the student-athletes of ESF and OCC,” said Dan Ramin, ESF Athletic Director. "This is a once-in-a-lifetime memory. The Dome is such a part of the Syracuse landscape, and to say you competed there is an honor.”

The game held additional significance as it marked Senior Night for the Mighty Oaks, with Christian Rossi acknowledged for his contributions to the team. Rossi, a construction management major from Camillus, 10 miles west of Syracuse, reminisced about playing high school ball for West Genesee High School and how the Dome has always been a prominent feature in the local sports scene.

"Playing in the Dome is a great experience that my teammates and I are fortunate to have,” said Rossi. “We look forward to the Dome game all year, and I’m very appreciative to have the chance to play there in my senior year.”

 About SUNY ESF

The SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry (ESF) is dedicated to the study of the environment, developing renewable technologies, and building a sustainable and resilient future through design, policy, and management of the environment and natural resources. Members of the College community share a passion for protecting the health of the planet and a deep commitment to the rigorous application of science to improve the way humans interact with the world. The College offers academic programs ranging from the associate of applied science to the Doctor of Philosophy. ESF students live, study and do research on the main campus in Syracuse, N.Y., and on 25,000 acres of field stations in a variety of ecosystems across the state.