The New York University men's basketball team won its first game of the 2019-20 season, defeating Mitchell College 81-73 at the Hampton Inn Jim Beaudry Classic hosted by the University of New England in Biddeford, ME, on Saturday, November 16.

The Violets (1-2) never trailed in the contest, running out to a quick 12-2 lead. NYU's advantage grew to as many as 18 points, 31-13, on Bobby Hawkinson's (Frankfort, IL/Marist) jumper with 9:12 remaining in the first half.

Mitchell (0-1) then went on a 12-4 run to pull within 10, 35-25. Then with only 1:16 left, the Mariners got to within eight, 41-33. 

But, Nick Macarchuk's (Alamo, CA/St. Thomas Moore Prep) free throw and Seny Andreev's (Moscow, Russia/IMG Academy (Bradenton, FL)) layup gave NYU a 44-33 halftime lead.

The Violets shot 53.1% (17-of-32) over the first 20 minutes as both Miles Somerville (Bowie, MD/Georgetown Prep) (12) and Jimmy Martinelli (Glenview, IL/Glenbrook South) (10) scored in double digits.

NYU was able to increase its lead back up to 13, but the pesky Mariners refused to go away. They pulled within four, 55-51, midway through the final half. But, the Violets never allowed them to get any nearer in closing out their first victory of the season.

"It was a great team win," said Head Coach Dagan Nelson. "Our three-point field goal percentage defense was a big key for us tonight along with our ability to keep them off the offensive glass."

Somerville finished with a team-high 17 points while Martinelli had 16 and Andreev finished with 15.

Macarchuk had nine points and six rebounds. Andreev compiled team highs of seven rebounds and five assists.

"We look forward to having the opportunity to play for a championship tomorrow," Nelson added.

The Violets will now face the host Nor'easters in the Championship Game on Sunday at 3:00pm.