The New York University men's basketball team defeated Marywood University 78-71 in its 2016-17 season opener on Friday, November 18, at the Rose City Classic hosted by Drew University in Madison, NJ.

Captain Joe Timmes, the Violets' lone senior, scored a career-high 25 points to lead the way. He connected on 7-10 from three-point range and added six rebounds in posting the finest game of his career.

The Violets trailed 11-10 midway through the first half, but scored the next 10 points and never trailed again. NYU led by as many as 14 points late in the first half and took a game-high 16-point lead, 68-52, on a layup by freshman Ted Georgiadis with 3:23 left in the game.  

"I thought we played pretty well," said Assistant Coach Taylor Roth. "We came out with a focus and some energy and got a lot of defensive stops early. I think that defensive momentum carried over to the offense." 

The Pacers, also playing their season opener, did pull to within three points, 51-48, with 9:21 to go in the game. However, a pair of free throws and a three-pointer by junior captain Ross Udine followed. After another Marywood bucket, Timmes connected on a three-pointer and the Violets were never seriously threatened again 

"I wasn't surprised to see Joe and Ross play well," added Roth. "They've done a phenomenal job in practice all fall. They've worked hard and their play tonight is a result of a lot of hours in the gym."

HIGHLIGHTS:

- Udine finished with 20 points and seven assists.

- Georgiadis scored 11 points in his NYU debut.

- Freshman Jimmy Martinelli recorded a game-high nine rebounds and chipped in with seven points.

- Jordan Harris totaled eight points in his first game as a Violet. .

- The Pacers were led by James Curley's 20 points.

"The freshmen played well. They're a talented group," Roth explained. "I like their progress. It was a good night out for all of them."

NYU returns to the court on Saturday when they play host Drew in the Rose City Classic Championship Game. Tip-off is set for 6:00 pm.