Manhattan Dominates MAAC ASUN Challenge

Orlando, FL- The Jaspers closed the MAAC ASUN Challenge with a double-digit win over the preseason ASUN favorite Liberty Flames.

A competitive first half led to three ties, however, the Jaspers maintained control of the half leading the three-time consecutive ASUN Championship winner for 17 minutes of the half, only allowing Liberty to lead for 41 seconds of the entire half. Liberty's largest lead in the game was 5-4 and then the Jaspers took control & kept it from that point forward in a decisive 76-60 victory against the Flames.

The tough Jasper defense in the first half proved to be difficult for the Flames creating eight turnovers, with the Jaspers converting nine points from Liberty's mishaps. The Jaspers hit the boards hard with 19 rebounds in the first half alone. Fifteen of these came on the defensive end. The Jaspers managed to convert their four offensive rebounds into six-second chance points. Manhattan ended the first half leading 28-17. 

In the second half, the Jaspers proved to be just as dominant. Maintaining their lead for the entirety of the second half, controlling the game for a total of 36 minutes. Manhattan's defense continued in the second half finishing the game with nine steals, 26 rebounds, and converting a total of 21 points off turnovers. On the other side of the court, the Jaspers proved why they are a major offensive threat shooting 58% on the day, with seven different players scoring and three in double-digit points. After today's win, the Jaspers now have a winning record of 4-1.

The Jaspers were led by senior guard Elijah Buchanan (Bronx, NY) who tallied a game-high and season-high 21 points, two steals, three rebounds, three assists. Senior forward Jose Perez (Bronx, NY) proved to be a key playmaker throughout the game finishing with 14 points, seven assists, and four rebounds. Senior Warren Williams (Kingston, Jamaica) added 13 points, three rebounds, one block, and two steals.

The Eagles were led by the unanimously picked ASUN 2021 Player of the Year senior guard Darius McGhee. McGhee who was tabbed as ASUN Preseason player of the year was held to just nine points in the entire game. Following the outcome, of this game, the Flames have an overall record of 1-3. 

The Jaspers will return to play on Nov. 30 at 7:00 p.m. taking on the Fairleigh Dickinson Knights at home.