Mahwah, NJ - The College of Mount Saint Vincent's men's basketball team hit the road to New Jersey on Monday evening in a non-conference matchup against Ramapo College. Despite a loss in their previous contest against NYU, the Dolphins were looking to keep the positive momentum from the contest into tonight's action. The James Mooney-led squad did just that, as they took the RoadRunners into overtime and eventually defeated them by the score of 74-73.
The first half saw the Dolphins break out to an early lead, one they held onto for over 17 of the 20 minutes played. As a whole, the team shot an impressive 45% from the floor while also converting seven baskets off assists. The Dolphins' defense also impressed, as they forced Ramapo to turn the ball over 15 times, with CMSV scoring 13 points over that span. Sophomore standout Kalos Evans led the way with nine points in the half to go along with three boards. The backcourt duo of Raiquis Harris and Makai Johnson combined for 13 of their own.
Over the final 20 minutes of play, the RoadRunners flexed their offensive muscles, sporting a 50% field goal percentage while outscoring the Dolphins 35-29. Due to the successful first half, the Dolphins were able to maintain even ground with their opposition, as the game transitioned to overtime. From there, it was all CMSV. The road team saw big baskets from Harris, Johnson and Vinny Tavella to ensure the victory.
Harris, the Dolphins' leading scorer, once again led his team in points with 23 and also added six rebounds, four steals and three assists to the stat sheet. Evans added 18 points and a team-high seven boards while Johnson added 15 points, including shooting 75% from three point range, as well as an impressive seven steals. Tavella and Dorian Robinson combined for eight bench points in the win.
The Dolphins will get a chance to let a successful four game span sink in, as they're not scheduled to play again until New Year's Eve. The contest, which will be played at home against Rutgers-Newark, is scheduled for a 2:00 PM tip-off.