The New Jersey City University (NJCU) men’s basketball team was defeated by top-ranked Montclair State University (MSU) 98-85 in a New Jersey Athletic Conference (NJAC) matchup on Wednesday, February 11 at the Panzer Athletic Center.
With this result, NJCU’s record stands at 13-10 overall and 9-7 in conference play. Montclair State remains undefeated with a 23-0 overall record and a perfect 16-0 mark in the NJAC.
Despite the loss, NJCU delivered one of its most efficient offensive performances of the season. The team shot 45.2 percent from the field, made half of its three-point attempts, and converted over 92 percent of its free throws. Montclair State countered with nearly 50 percent shooting from the floor and made 19 three-pointers but struggled at the free throw line.
Montclair State held advantages in points off turnovers, second-chance points, fast-break points, and bench scoring. NJCU had an edge in points scored in the paint. Both teams committed 14 turnovers during the game.
Senior Bakhi Rogers-Robinson led NJCU with 28 points on efficient shooting, making all his three-point and free throw attempts while adding two rebounds, two steals, and one assist. Junior Jayden Brown scored a career-high 15 points and contributed three assists and two rebounds.
Junior Donovan Crawford led NJCU with 15 rebounds along with nine points, four assists, and three steals. Marc Brown Jr., also a junior, recorded four assists for the team.
For Montclair State, Jacob Morales scored a team-high 25 points including seven three-pointers. Christian Nicholson added 15 points as well as five rebounds and five assists; Ahmad Robertson contributed across several categories with double-digit scoring.
NJCU briefly took control midway through the first half but Montclair State regained momentum before halftime to lead by double digits at intermission. In the second half, NJCU cut into MSU’s lead multiple times but could not close the gap as MSU maintained their advantage until the end.
The Gothic Knights will next face The College of New Jersey on Saturday, February 14 at home inside the John J. Moore Athletics and Fitness Center.
