NEW ROCHELLE, N.Y. – The Monroe University – Bronx men's basketball team earned a Region 15 victory over local rival Bronx Community College, 98-42, at Monroe Athletic Complex on Tuesday evening.

The Express (16-5 overall) are now 12-2 in the region, good for sole possession of first place in the standings. 

The Blue and Gold never trailed at any point in the contest. A key play early in the game was a steal by Andi Metaliaj who found Jalonie Pittman and the latter connected with a fastbreak layup to give Monroe a 10-2 advantage just 2:31 into the contest. The Express never surrendered the lead. 

During the evening, Monroe shot a sizzling 53.3% from the field (40-for-75) and drained nine 3-point shots. The Express' defense forced 24 turnovers and scored 35 points off Bronx's (0-21, 0-17 Region 15) miscues. 

Moustapha Sarr had a career evening for the Express with personal-best marks of 14 points, five rebounds, and two blocked shots. Ramsey Lewis set a career high in scoring as well with 13, while snatching two boards and forcing just as many steals. Nehemiah McCallop went 3-for-3 from the field, including 2-for-2 from beyond the arc, for eight points. He also secured five caroms. Metaliaj generated personal-bests nine rebounds and five assists, while scoring four points and tallying two steals. 

Also helping Monroe was Michael Samuda who generated 13 points, five rebounds, just as many helpers, and a duo of steals. Pittman recorded 10 points and four boards. Steven McGriff compiled eight points, four rebounds, and a duo of steals. Paolo Avvento drained six points, snatched four caroms, and delivered just as many assists. Damien Maldonado chipped in with seven points and four helpers, while Josmar Acevedo added six points and five caroms. Caleb Dunn and Erskin Willingham each had five rebounds and two assists. Malike Smart distributed four providers. Javaughn White added an assist and a rebound.

Monroe – Bronx will continue Region 15 play on Thursday against LaGuardia Community College. Tipoff at Monroe Athletic Complex is scheduled 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).