LINCROFT, N.J. – The Monroe University – Bronx men's basketball team earned a big-time victory to open the 2024-25 season as they knocked off nationally ranked No. 5 Northern Essex Community College, 70-60, at Robert J. Collins Arena on Saturday afternoon. It was the opening day of the Brookdale Community College Classic.
 
The Express (1-0) fell behind 11-2 early in the contest but rallied to take a 32-31 edge into the intermission. Then, Monroe outscored Northern Essex (0-1), 38-27, during the final 20 minutes of play to earn the season-opening victory. 
 
"We showed a lot of resilience today," Express Head Men's Basketball Coach Chris Neely said. "Getting down early and fighting our way back. I'm proud of this young team's energy and effort on the road."
 
First-year forward Dimitre Alston had a huge game for the Express with 17 points, seven rebounds, and three assists. First-year forward Paolo Avvento added 12 points, five rebounds, a trio of assists, and a pair of steals. Sophomore forward Shain Frazier netted 11 points and snatched four boards. Freshman guard Michael Samuda generated 10 points, six rebounds, and three assists. 
 
Sophomore forward David Malone provided six points and two steals off the bench for Monroe. Second-year center Rene Williams scored five points and clutched four caroms. Freshman guard Malike Smart finished with four points and five rebounds. 
 
Monroe – Bronx will conclude the Brookdale Classic by facing the host and perennial national contender Jersey Blues on Sunday. Tipoff at Robert J. Collins Arena is set for 3:00 p.m. 
 
ABOUT THE ATHLETIC PROGRAM AT MONROE UNIVERSITY
The athletic program at Monroe University encompasses a total of 31 teams competing across nine sports. There are 21 varsity and junior varsity programs, as well as club men's and women's rugby, the Monroe University marching band, and the newly added esports and men's volleyball programs, competing on the New Rochelle campus as the Mustangs (NJCAA Division I). The Monroe Express, based out of the Bronx campus, has seven teams competing at the NJCAA Division III level.
 
For more information about the Monroe Express, please visit us at www.MonroeExpress.com or follow us on social media: Facebook (Monroe Express), Twitter/X (@MonroeExpress), Instagram (@MonroeExpress), and Threads (@MonroeExpress).