Men’s Basketball Picks Up First Win in Season Opener

NASHUA, NH: The Rivier men's basketball team picks up their first win of the season in their home opener against non-conference opponent MCAL this afternoon in overtime by a score of 95-92.

THE BASICS:

- Date: 11/13/2021

- Score: Rivier 95, MCLA 92

- Records: MCLA (0-3), Rivier (1-1)

HOW IT HAPPENED:

-  The first half saw MCLA take a 40-39 lead into the half after scoring a last second layup to go on top by one. Hayden Bird was absolutely lights out from the field, shooting over 50% from behind the three-point line (6-11) for 20 points. He was hitting shots from all over the court with defenders in his face. The Raiders had everyone scoring, but Miles Gillette (Washington, DC) topped the team with 10 points and eight rebounds. He would finish with his second consecutive double-double of the season.

-  The Second half saw Gillette go off for 22 points to keep Rivier even throughout the half, with the Trailblazers helping the Raiders force overtime after outscoring them 44-43. Bird also kept his hot hand, scoring another 15 points in the second, along with Dylan Morris-Gray right behind him with 11 points and four steals.

- Overtime consisted of Nikolas Pignone (Stoneham, MA) leading the way for Rivier with four points. Quentin Gittens put in his best efforts to keep the Trailblazers in the game with six points, but there was not enough production from his fellow teammates to secure the win.

INSIDE THE NUMBERS:

-  Bird had the game high of 38 points on 13-for-25 from the field, along with 4 rebounds and one assist.

-  Gillette held the team high for Rivier with 33 points, 16 rebounds, and 4 assists.

-  Shooting Percentage: Rivier 46.1%, MCLA 40.2%

- Three-Point Percentage: Rivier 39.3%, MCLA 37.2%

- Free Throw Percentage: MCLA 75%, Rivier 70%

UP NEXT:

- Rivier men's basketball will be back on the court tomorrow when Maine Augusta makes the trip to the Muldoon Center for a 1 pm start.

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