SELDEN, N.Y. – The Monroe University – Bronx men's basketball team delivered one of its most balanced and energetic performances of the season on Tuesday night, powering past Suffolk County Community College, 78–63, at Brookhaven Gym. With the win, the Express improve to 5–3 overall and 4–2 in Region 15 play, closing out the road matchup with toughness on both ends of the floor.

The Express trailed by as many as seven late in the opening half but rallied to earn the regional road win.

Monroe set the tone early with pace and pressure, and after entering halftime up just one, 40–39, the Express dominated the second half, outscoring Suffolk County 38–24. Their defensive intensity, ball movement, and second-chance opportunities carried the momentum as they pulled away late.

"Tonight's victory was hard-fought," Express Head Coach Chris Neely said. "Region 15 is tough every night. We had to rely on our defense in the second half and force turnovers, plus convert. We were poised in the second half, took our time, and were able to do things we normally do to get the victory."
 
Paolo Avvento led the charge with a standout two-way performance, finishing with 19 points, seven rebounds, and two steals, knocking down three triples, and hitting big shots in both halves—including a dagger three in the final seconds.

Off the bench, Adrian Rosario gave Monroe a huge spark with 13 points and seven rebounds, finishing strong at the rim and creating second-chance opportunities. Steven McGriff added nine points, five rebounds, and two steals, while Andi Metaliaj continued his consistency with nine points and five boards on efficient shooting.

Malike Smart (seven points), Josmar Acevedo (seven points), and Damien Maldonado (two points, three assists) helped fuel a dominant team defensive effort that forced 22 Suffolk County turnovers, turning them into 30 points.

Monroe's physicality on the glass: 48 rebounds, including 19 offensive boards, proved to be the difference, along with 26 points from the bench and an explosive mid-second-half stretch led by Avvento, Smart, and Rosario.

The Express held Suffolk County (2-4, 2-4 Region 15) to just 25.9% shooting in the second half and never looked back once the lead hit double digits approaching the 10-minute mark.

Monroe University – Bronx returns home for a Region 15 showdown on Tuesday, December 2, hosting Hostos Community College at the Monroe Athletic Complex in New Rochelle, N.Y. Tip-off is scheduled for 8 p.m., as the Express look to build on their momentum and continue climbing within conference play.

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, 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).