DOBBS FERRY, N.Y. – Despite three Mavericks scoring in double figures, the Mercy University Men's Basketball Team dropped a 69-57 decision to ECC foe Roberts Wesleyan University on Sunday afternoon at the Judge Athletic Center.
The Mavericks (2-18, 2-9 ECC) have dropped 10 games in a row and drop both meetings to the Redhawks (4-14, 2-8 ECC) this season.
The game began with Khalik Gardner of Roberts Wesleyan scoring a layup just four seconds into the period, setting the tone for the visitors. Mercy briefly responded with a layup by junior Ashton Pratt (Alexandria, Va./Chesapeake College) to tie the score at 2-2. However, Roberts Wesleyan's offensive efficiency, highlighted by 17 field goals, including five from beyond the arc, allowed them to gain a significant lead. Hadi Alshami contributed notably in the paint with multiple successful attempts, while Keonjay Carter's layup in the final seconds solidified their 42-18 lead at the end of the first half.
Mercy surged in the second half, closing the gap with a strong offensive performance. Junior Jordan Trahan (New Orleans, La./Odessa College) ignited the attack with a layup at 19:42, while senior TJ Holloway (Stratford, Conn./Central Connecticut State University) added a layup and a jumper, amassing a total of 10 points during the half. Pratt contributed significantly with multiple fast-break layups and free throws, helping Mercy score 39 points in the half. The Redhawks maintained their lead, with Jordan Brown scoring a critical layup at 8:03, but Mercy's defense applied pressure, leading to multiple turnovers. Despite Mercy's efforts, Roberts Wesleyan secured the victory with a final score of 69-57.
Trahan led Mercy with a game-high 20 points, converting 10 of 12 free throws and adding eight rebounds. Holloway contributed 14 points and recorded six rebounds while securing two steals. Pratt scored 14 points and posted four steals, also contributing three rebounds. Freshman Tyrell Miller (Los Angeles, Calif./Frederick K.C. Price III Christian School) added three points and recorded three blocks and three steals, finishing with eight rebounds.
Gardner led the Redhawks with 12 points, shooting 5-for-11 from the field and adding one block. Collin Woods contributed 13 points, making 5 of 6 free throws and dishing out two assists.
Mercy shot 34.0 percent (18-of-53) from the floor, 18.2 percent (2-of-11) from downtown and 73.1 percent (19-of-26) from the foul line. Roberts Wesleyan shot 39.4 percent (26-of-66) from the field, 24.0 percent (6-of-25) from beyond the arc and 61.1 percent (11-of-18) from the charity stripe. Roberts Wesleyan held a 47-34 edge on the glass.
Head Coach Charles Marquardt and the Mavericks resume action on Friday, February 13th when they play at Daemen at 7:30 p.m.
