MONTCLAIR, N.J. – The William Paterson men's basketball team (2-3, 0-1 NJAC) got a game-high 18 points from junior guard Sean Smith but was tripped-up by Montclair State (4-0, 1-0 NJAC), 63-61, in the New Jersey Athletic Conference (NJAC) opener for both programs Nov. 20.

HOW IT HAPPENED:

• In a matchup that featured two of the top scoring teams in the conference, neither side was able to find any sort of offensive rhythm as MSU took a slim 23-22 lead into halftime.
• Deadlocked at 51-51 with 4:00 remaining, the Red Hawks scored nine of the game's next 11 points to claim a seven-point advantage (60-53). The Pioneers would get within two point twice in the final minute but couldn't find the equalizer as Montclair State took the conference opener, 63-61.

INSIDE THE NUMBERS:

• Smith has reached double-digit scoring totals in four of five games this season.
• Defensively, Myles McLeod grabbed eight rebounds and added two blocks.
• WP struggled from the free throw line all evening, converting just 50 percent (11-22) as compared to 74.1 percent (20-27) for MSU.

UP NEXT:

• WP hosts Baruch in non-conference play on Monday, Nov. 26, at 8:00 p.m.

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