Regis Defeats NEC, 72-67, in GNAC Contest

WESTON, Mass. – In a close contest that featured one tie and 10 lead changes, Regis College was able to hold off a comeback by New England College as the Pride defeated the Pilgrims, 72-67, Tuesday night in a Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC) men's basketball game at Higgins Court.

Russell Rau (Fitchburg, Mass.) earned a double-double, leading the Pride with 17 points and 12 rebounds. Justin Evelyn (Uniondale, N.Y.) finished with 14 points and four rebounds.

The Pilgrims opened the second half with offensive momentum in an effort to close its deficit by seven points at 37-30, but Regis would soon bounce back with three-point shots from Rau, Evelyn, and Zakaria Latifi (Holliston, Mass.). NEC put together a 4-0 scoring run over the next four minutes, but was later capped by Tate Pike (Bellingham, Mass.) after a three-point jump shot.

The Pilgrims took advantage of a Pride turnover, as a jump shot from Nick Gomeau allowed New England College to pull ahead, 55-54, with less than seven minutes remaining. Evelyn responded with a three-pointer followed by two jump shots from Cameron Wilkins (Tauton, Mass.).

After a layup from Alex Williams brought the Pilgrims to a one-point deficit, Rau made two free throws to extend the lead after a foul on Williams.

Michael Hills led the Pilgrims with 16 points, two rebounds and one assist. Williams finished with 13 points and 10 rebounds.

Regis (9-11, 4-5 GNAC) are set to host Rivier University on Saturday, Feb. 3, starting at 3:00 p.m. New England College (4-16, 1-8) are scheduled to host Mitchell College on Saturday, Feb. 3, at 3:30 p.m.