NEW ROCHELLE, N.Y., February 6, 2025 – The Monroe University - Bronx men's basketball team battled hard but was unable to overcome a strong second-half push from Kingsborough Community College, falling 61-51 in a Region 15 showdown on Thursday night at the Monroe Athletic Complex.

The Express (15-9, 10-5 Region 15) started strong and kept pace with Kingsborough (12-11, 11-7 Region 15) throughout the first half, trailing by just two points (26-24) at the break. However, Kingsborough found its rhythm in the second half, outscoring Monroe 35-27 to secure the victory.

Freshman Dimitre Alston led Monroe - Bronx with a solid 18-point, eight-rebound performance, while classmate David Malone posted a double-double with 11 points and 15 rebounds. Rookie Paolo Avvento added 10 points and six rebounds in the effort.

For Kingsborough, freshman James Elder came off the bench to provide a crucial spark, scoring 15 points on a perfect 7-of-7 shooting. Sophomore Oliver Reyes Jr. and classmate Abdoul Toure each chipped in 10 points, with Toure knocking down two key 3-pointers in the second half.

Despite winning the battle in the paint with 28 points inside, Monroe struggled from the free-throw line, shooting just 35.3% (6-17) compared to Kingsborough's 54.5% (6-11). The Express also had trouble taking care of the ball, committing 24 turnovers, leading to 20 points off turnovers for Kingsborough.

Monroe - Bronx aims to regroup in its upcoming matchup against SUNY Sullivan on Saturday, February 8, 2025. Tipoff at Monsignor Scanlan Gymnasium is scheduled for 5:30 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). Catch us on YouTube at www.YouTube.com/MonroeExpress.