Raiders Slip Past Griffins in Overtime of Chatham University Tip-Off Classic Opener

Pittsburgh, Pa. - (11/10/2023) - Gwynedd Mercy University (1-1) traveled to Pittsburgh University to open the Chatham University Tip-Off Classic with a contest versus #5 University of Mount Union (1-0). The Raiders narrowly escaped the Griffins in a 89-82 overtime finish as the Red and Gold owned a 41-30 halftime advantage and led as late as 1:50 (74-72) before needing a last-second three pointer from senior guard Aziz Parker (Westampton, N.J.) to force the extra frame; 78-78 (0:03). There, the University of Mount Union scored the first basket (80-78, 4:30) and gradually distanced themselves for the seven-point win. Parker led six Griffins in double figures with 16 points, fellow guard Manny Clark (Pottsgrove, Pa.) was one on them as he netted 11 points to go with a team-high seven rebounds.

Griffin Highlights

  • Gwynedd Mercy University took their first lead, 10-8, at 14:33 with a fastbreak layup from sophomore guard Aquil Stewart (Philadelphia, Pa.).
  • The Griffin lead reached double digits, 19-9, just past the 11-minute mark of the first half and maxed out at 14 points, 25-11, with 10:24 remaining in the frame.
  • The Red and Gold outshot the Raiders from the floor - 43.5% (30-of-69) - 38.5% (30-of-78) - and shot better from long range - 45.8% (11-of-24) - 31.3% (10-of-32) - but were outdone at the free throw line - 19-of-36 (52.8%) - 11-of-17 (64.7%) - and on the glass; 54-46.
  • Parker added six rebounds and two assists to his second straight team-high scoring performance.
  • Junior forward Dom Thomas (Mullica Hill, N.J.) was a major contributor with 14 points, six rebounds, and an assist.
  • Sophomore guard D.J. Johnson (Norristown, Pa.) headlined Gwynedd Mercy University's defensive effort with two steals. He also scored 10 points, grabbed six rebounds, and handed out three assists.

Gwynedd Mercy University returns to Chatham University tomorrow, Saturday, November 11, for a 12:00 p.m. game versus Carlow University (Pa.).