THROGGS NECK, N.Y. – The Monroe University – Bronx men's basketball team opened Region 15 play with a 73-53 loss to Queensborough Community College, in the Express' home opener at Monsignor Scanlan Gym, on Thursday evening. 

The key of the game was the turnovers. Queensborough (1-1, 1-0 Region 15) won that battle, 30-13, and scored 32 points off of Monroe's miscues. 

The Tigers jumped out to a 10-0 lead and never looked back. The Express (1-2, 0-1 Region 15) trailed by as many as 13 in the opening half but finished the stanza with seven unanswered points during the final 2:26, capped off by a 3-point basket from Michael Samuda with a minute to go, to shrink their deficit to 33-27. That was the score after 20 minutes of play.

Queensborough snatched the momentum right back in the beginning of the second half by starting it off with an 8-2 blitz to go back up by double digits at 41-29. Monroe could not generate a consistent enough run to get back into the game as the Tigers earned its largest lead of the night at 65-43 before earning the 73-53 win.

Leading the way for Monroe – Bronx was Samuda who compiled nine points, six assists, four steals, and three rebounds. Adrian Rosario snatched a game-high 18 rebounds, while adding eight points. Steven McGriff had a solid night with six points, eight boards, and four helpers. Jalonie Pittman chipped in with seven points and a duo of caroms.

For Queensborough, Diego Cruz Lopez had a game-high 16 points, while collecting four steals, grabbing two rebounds, and delivering just as many assists. Cadell Inniss registered 13 points, six boards, just as many providers, and four steals. Jhereme Asamoah had a near double-double with 12 points and nine rebounds, while adding five assists and two steals. Jerheim Elder finished with 10 points, four steals, and three assists.

Monroe – Bronx will continue Region 15 play on Tuesday against LaGuardia Community College. Tipoff at LaGuardia CC Sports Gymnasium is set for 8 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, 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).