In its toughest challenge of the young season, the New York University men's basketball team defeated the United States Merchant Marine Academy 76-66 on Wednesday, December 4, at the Coles Sports Center in Manhattan.

The Violets (5-0) trailed the Mariners (2-2) by five, 62-57, with just under nine minutes to play. However, freshman Joe Timmes' three-pointer sparked a 9-0 NYU run and the Violets never trailed again.

Over the final 6:58 of the game, the Violets outscored the Mariners 20-5.

"Joe's shot was huge and really helped turned things around," said NYU Head Coach Joe Nesci.

HIGHLIGHTS:

- Sophomore Evan Kupferberg had a monster game for the Violets. The sophomore recorded a double-double with career highs of 22 points and 17 rebounds. He also totaled a career-best four blocks and added two steals and an assist.

- Senior co-captain Ryan Tana was deadly from long range. He connected on four of five three-pointers, went 6-7 from the field overall, and finished with 18 points.

- Sophomore Max Ralby had nine points, six assists and a career-high five steals.

- Overall, NYU blocked a season-high nine shots.

- David Smith led three Mariners in double figures with 16 points.

"A very solid defensive performance down the stretch," Nesci said. "We sensed the urgency and made the plays when we needed to."

The Violets return to action on Sunday, December 8, when they host York (NY) College at 1:00pm at Coles.