NEW ROCHELLE, N.Y. – February 25, 2025 – The third-seeded Monroe University - Bronx men's basketball team secured a hard-fought 65-58 victory over sixth-seeded Queensborough Community College, in the quarterfinal round of the Region 15 Tournament, on Tuesday night at the Monroe Athletic Complex. The Express used a strong second-half surge to pull away, improving to 19-10 on the season.

With this victory, Monroe University – Bronx will look to build on this strong performance as they prepare for their Region 15 Semifinal match against second-seeded Hostos Community College, the defending regional champions, on the campus of Kingsborough Community College on Saturday evening. Tipoff is at 6:00 p.m. This will be the Express' fourth straight appearance in the regional semifinals, and they aim to extend their winning streak and solidify their place as a top contender.

The game against Queensborough (11-12) was a back-and-forth battle in the first half, with Monroe holding a slim 23-21 lead at the break. However, the Express found their rhythm in the second half, shooting an impressive 48.1% from the field and a perfect 6-for-6 from beyond the arc. Freshman Paolo Avvento and sophomore Jayden Gamory's sharpshooting, coupled with sophomore Rene Williams' and freshman Dimitre Alston's defensive presence, allowed Monroe to take control and hold off its opponents down the stretch.

"Really proud of the way we played tonight," Express Head Men's Basketball Coach Chris Neely said. "We trusted our defense. They (Queensborough) are a great team and it's hard to beat a team three times. We had to grind it out."

Avvento led the charge offensively, scoring a team-high 15 points while shooting an impressive 3-for-6 from beyond the arc. His ability to space the floor and knock down critical 3-pointers in the second half gave Monroe the boost it needed to pull ahead. Avvento also contributed on the defensive end, adding a steal and a key block that helped the Express maintain control in crunch time.

Gamory was a force on both ends of the floor, finishing with 14 points on near-perfect shooting from deep, going 3-for-4 from 3-point range. His offensive efficiency, combined with his ability to distribute the ball and create opportunities for teammates, made him a crucial playmaker. Gamory also knocked down key free throws in the final moments, sealing the victory for Monroe and preventing any late-game comeback attempts by Queensborough.

Williams anchored Monroe's defense while making his presence felt on the boards, securing nine rebounds. His physicality in the paint and ability to disrupt shots played a huge role in limiting Queensborough's second-chance opportunities. Although he finished with just four points, Williams' defensive contributions and hustle plays were instrumental in Monroe's ability to control the tempo in the second half.

Alston provided an interior presence for the Express, chipping in eight points and six rebounds while also protecting the rim with three blocks. His ability to contest shots and secure key rebounds helped Monroe dominate the paint, forcing Queensborough to take lower-percentage shots. Alston also made a key defensive stop in the closing minutes, preventing a late Queensborough run.

For updates regarding Monroe's regional semifinal playoff game against nationally ranked No. 14 Hostos, check out www.MonroeExpress.com as well as our social media channels. 

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). Catch us on YouTube at www.YouTube.com/MonroeExpress.