WAYNE, N.J. - The New Jersey City University (NJCU) men's basketball team faced a challenging defeat on Saturday, February 8, as they were defeated by William Paterson, 66-55, at the Sports and Recreation Center.

NJCU (12-10, 7-8 NJAC) shot just 30.2% from the field (19-63) and 13.3% from three-point range (2-15), which severely hindered their offensive flow. The team also struggled at the free-throw line, converting only 68.2% of their attempts (15-22). Meanwhile, William Paterson (6-16, 2-13 NJAC) shot a more efficient 43.4% from the field (23-53) and 33.3% from three (6-18). The Pioneers also had a slight edge in free-throw shooting, converting 58.3% of their attempts (14-24). The Pioneers outperformed NJCU in several key statistical areas, including rebounds (43-42), assists (13-7), and fastbreak points (14-4). Although the Gothic Knights won the turnover battle, committing 12 to William Paterson's 15, the Pioneers capitalized on their rebounding advantage and efficient shooting to control the game.

Individually, the Gothic Knights were led by guard Bakhi Rogers-Robinson (Orange, N.J./West Caldwell Tech), who posted 13 points, including seven from the free-throw line. He also contributed two rebounds and an assist. Forward Avante Gilbert (Paterson, N.J./International) added 10 points on 5-10 shooting, along with six rebounds, two assists, and two blocks, while guard Hakeem Wilson (Newark, N.J./North Star Academy) also scored 10 points on 5-7 shooting, along with two rebounds and two steals. Guards Isaiah Johnson-Williams (Jersey City, N.J./Don Bosco) and Prime Payton (Jersey City, N.J./Lincoln) each grabbed a team-high seven rebounds, with Payton also recording a season-high three steals.

William Paterson was led by standout performances from David Martinez and Neftali Valentin, both of whom finished with 20 points. Martinez also grabbed five rebounds, while Valentin contributed three rebounds, four assists, and a steal. Chris Gilmore added a game-high nine rebounds, while Andre Wells facilitated the offense with five assists, adding 14 points and three rebounds.

The game was close in the first half, with William Paterson taking a slim 25-23 lead into the break. NJCU struggled to find its rhythm offensively, shooting just 9-30 from the field and failing to make a three-pointer (0-5). Gilbert was the team's leading scorer in the first half with eight points, while Wilson added six. However, the game remained within a two-possession margin throughout the first half, and the Pioneers' ability to hit timely three-pointers, especially from Valentin, kept them in front.

In the second half, William Paterson came out strong, with Martinez sparking a 10-0 run that included two three-pointers, pushing the Pioneers' lead to 38-28. Coach Marc Brown responded by bringing in Rogers-Robinson, who quickly scored five of NJCU's next seven points, cutting the deficit to 42-35 and forcing a timeout by the Pioneers. After the timeout, Valentin hit a quick bucket, and the lead remained nine points at 44-35. NJCU fought back with Gilbert hitting a jumper and Rogers-Robinson making two free throws to make it a four-point game with 10:26 remaining. However, William Paterson responded with a 6-2 run, establishing a 54-43 advantage with 7:46 left.

The Gothic Knights tried to make a late push after Valentin fouled out at the 4:43 mark, with Payton converting a free throw to cut the deficit to 59-51. Despite this effort, NJCU couldn't get any closer, as William Paterson maintained control and secured the 66-55 win.

UP NEXT:
The Gothic Knights look to bounce back quickly as they return to action on Wednesday, February 12, when they host Montclair State at 7:30 p.m.

For the latest news, updates, and information on New Jersey City University sports, visit njcugothicknights.com. Fans can also stay up-to-date on the latest Gothic Knights news by following NJCU Athletics on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube.