DOBBS FERRY, N.Y. – Despite four Mavericks scoring in double figures, the Mercy University Men's Basketball Team dropped an 84-73 decision to ECC foe Molloy University on Alumni Day on Sunday afternoon at the Judge Athletic Center.
The Mavericks (2-22, 2-13 ECC) have dropped 14 games in a row and drop both meetings to the Lions (8-16, 8-6 ECC) this season.
The game began with Mercy taking an early lead, thanks to a layup by sophomore Kohen Rowbatham (Slidell, La./University of New Orleans) and a jumper from junior Ashton Pratt (Alexandria, Va./Alexandria). Molloy quickly responded with a layup by Jared Weakly at the 18:03 mark, narrowing the gap. Mercy maintained its advantage with contributions from multiple players, including a fast break layup by senior TJ Holloway (Stratford, Conn./Central Connecticut State University). However, Molloy surged ahead with a 3-pointer by Bryce Merchant, who was instrumental in building a 36-32 lead by the end of the first half. A Rowbatham 3-pointer and sophomore James Connolly (Canton, Ga./The Winchendon School) dunk made it 35-32, but Molloy finished the half on top following Chris Stokel's free throw with one second remaining.
Molloy extended its lead in the second half, opening with a string of successful possessions that saw Dylan Kopp and Manu Alford scoring early to push the advantage to eight points. Mercy's Holloway answered with a series of baskets, including a jumper at 14:27 to narrow the gap to five points. However, Stokel's offensive burst, including two three-pointers, helped Molloy maintain control. Despite a late rally from Mercy, Molloy held the advantage, securing an 84-73 victory with consistent scoring and reliable free-throw shooting in the final minute.
Mercy was led by Rowbatham who scored 20 points, converting 9 of 19 field goals and adding three assists. Holloway finished with 19 points and recorded four rebounds in the game. Junior Jordan Trahan (New Orleans, La./Odessa College) added 14 points, six rebounds and made two steals, contributing defensively. Pratt recorded 12 points and freshman Tyrell Miller (Los Angeles, Calif./Frederick K.C. Price III Christian School) collected a career-high 11 rebounds, scored six points, posted three blocks, and made three steals.
Merchant led Molloy by scoring 24 points, hitting 9 of 13 from the field and 3 of 6 from beyond the arc. Stokel contributed significantly, scoring a game-high 26 points with five 3-pointers and adding five assists.
Mercy shot 42.7 percent (32-of-75) from the floor, 17.6 percent (3-of-17) from downtown and 75.0 percent (6-of-8) from the foul line. Molloy shot 47.0 percent (31-of-66) from the field, 40.7 percent (11-of-27) from beyond the arc and 84.6 percent (11-of-13) from the charity stripe. Molloy held a 43-36 edge on the glass.
Head Coach Charles Marquardt and the Mavericks resume action on Wednesday, February 25th when they host Caldwell at 7 p.m.
