Lions Knock Off Rutgers-Newark

NEWARK, N.J. - Russ Conley (Transfer, PA/Reynolds) led the way for the Lions with 19 points and 11 rebounds, helping Behrend to the 64-59 non-conference victory over Rutgers-Newark in men's basketball action on Friday afternoon.

Despite losing the rebounding edge, the Lions hit seven threes and forced 13 turnovers to earn their second road victory of the year.

Behrend (3-7, 2-2 AMCC) started slow, going scoreless through the first four minutes on the game.  The Lions used stingy defense to keep the contest close, eventually tying the game at 17-all with less than five minutes to play. 

Keith Wallace (Washington, DC/Central Tech) paced Behrend with six first half points.  The Scarlet Raiders and Lions would trade baskets with Rutgers-Newark holding a 26-24 halftime lead.

With the second half underway, Behrend found their rhythm from long range.  The Lions connected on six second half triples with Evan Eaton (Mt. Lebanon, PA/Mt. Lebanon) and Adam Palcic (Greensburg, PA/Greensburg Central Catholic) each hitting two.  The second half remained close with neither team gaining a big advantage.

At the 8:23 mark, Conley made a layup to give Behrend a two point lead.  Nick DeLisio (Aliquippa, PA/Central Valley) followed with a three to help the Lions take control.  Behrend held onto the slim lead for the next seven minutes.

After Greg Moore hit a three to cut the Lions lead to three, Wallace and DeLisio each make a pair of clutch free throws to shut the door and secure the victory.

For the second straight game, Behrend had three players score in double figures.  Palcic contributed a season-high 12 points while Wallace chipped in 10 to go along with five rebounds and two steals.

The Lions will be back in action on Wednesday to resume conference play.  Behrend will travel to D'Youville for a game time at 6 p.m.