GWYNEDD VALLEY, PA -- Gwynedd-Mercy fell to John Jay 85-77 Thursday night to spoil the home opener at the Griffin Complex.  This is the second time this season the Bloodhounds have defeated the Griffins, winning a 70-68 decision earlier this season in the season-opening NYU Tip-Off Tournament.

The Griffins (1-3) placed three players in double figures led by freshman guard Brian Hennessey who led GM with 18 points as he knocked down four three-pointers on the night.  Freshman Tyler Barnes recorded a double-double, scoring 16 points and grabbing 12 rebounds. Sophomore Justin Knight contributed 10 second-half points.

Jamar Harry led all scorers with 20 points and teammate Gary Brady added 14 as the Bloodhounds forced 18 second-half turnovers. The game featured 13 ties and 14 lead changes.

John Jay (3-1) jumped out to their largest lead of the first half (19-13) when Harry drew a foul on a layup inside. However the Griffins responded later with a 19-7 run to take their largest lead of the half at 34-28 when Hennessey knocked down a three ball at the 3:56 mark.  Gwynedd held a 40-35 advantage at the half.

The Bloodhounds wouldn't go away in the second half and took a 46-41 edge when Kris Owens knocked down a three ball at the 15:08 mark.  The Griffins battled back and knotted the game for the thirteenth time when Knight hit a pair of free throws to even the score 61-61.  John Jay would score the next eight points over a two-minute span that Gwynedd was unable to overcome down the stretch.

In all, John Jay capitalized on the Griffins' 31 turnovers scoring thirty points on the other end of the floor.

The Griffins where able to shoot 50% (26-of-52) from the field and where able to outrebounded John Jay 44-35.

John Jay shot 39.4% (28-of-71) for the game. They knocked down six three pointers and make twenty three free throws.  Owens and Swindon Charles chipped in 10 points apiece.

The Griffins return to action Monday night traveling on the road to Marywood to kick of CSAC play in a 7 p.m. tipoff.