Orlando, FL - The Jaspers open the MAAC ASUN Challenge with a win over the North Alabama Lions. With a solid performance throughout the entire game, Manhattan outpaced the Lions 55-51. This puts the Japers with an overall record of 3-1.
A close battle throughout the contest, including 12 lead changes in the first half alone, and neither team gaining a lead bigger than six in the same time period. The Jaspers entered the second half trailing 31-33, but a strong second half surged Manhattan to victory.
Both teams' defenses came out strong after the halftime break, as both teams were able to hold each other to under ten points in the first ten minutes of the half.
Thanks to their high-intensity defense the Jaspers ended the game with 11 steals, four blocks, and 17 forced turnovers as a team. Continuing their defensive prowess, Manhattan hit the boards hard, finishing with 32 rebounds, 25 of those rebounds coming on the defensive side of the court.
Senior guard Ant Nelson (New York, NY) scored a team-high with ten points, six rebounds, and two assists. Senior guard Samir Stewart (Fort Lauderdale, FL) lit up the three-point line finishing two for three from the beyond the line.
Senior Jose Perez (Bronx, NY) proved to be a key play maker in the Jasper offense, tabbing five assists, three rebounds, and one block. Throughout the contest, the Jaspers would have eight players score on offense, with 16 points being scored in the paint.
The Lions were led by Jamari Blackmon who ended the night with a game-high 13 points and two assists. Following this loss, the Lions now have a record of 1-2.
The Jaspers will return to play in the MAAC ASUN Challenge tomorrow against the Liberty Eagles at 6:00 p.m. with coverage on ESPN3.
