The undefeated New York University men's basketball team returned to action for the first time in 19 days and its winning ways continued. 

Quinn Clark led a balanced scoring attack with 19 points as the Violets defeated Hanover College 78-60 in the opening round of the Gregger Invitational in Roanoke, VA, on Thursday, December 29. 

Spencer Freedman (14 points), Zay Freeney (13)and Nikola Lipovic (10) also scored in double-digits as NYU improved to 10-0.

"Today was a great win for the program against a really good basketball team," said Head Coach Dave Klatsky. "The balance we exhibited today was terrific. Four guys in double figures and guys like Ephraim Reed (4 points, 3 steals, assist) and Holt Bashinsky (5 points, 2 steals) coming in to spell our two leading scorers and essentially putting the game out of reach." 

The Violets trailed 6-4 early, but Clarks' layup followed by baskets from Michael Savarino and Freedman put NYU ahead to stay.

NYU led by as many as 20 before taking a 42-24 halftime lead 
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Hanover pulled within six, 49-43, with just over 14 minutes remaining in the game. NYU responded with an 11-2 run and maintained a double-digit lead the rest of the way while going up by as many as 23 points.

"I was thrilled with our response to their run to start the second half," Klatsky added.  "It showed true heart and grit and a glimpse of what this team is all about."

Clark went 9-of-11 as the Violets shot a sizzling 60.8% (31-of-51) from the field. He led the way with 10 rebounds, while  Freedman posted game-highs of seven assists and four steals.  

The Violets induced 17 Hanover turnovers in the contest.

NYU returns to the court tomorrow to face host Roanoke College in the Tournament Championship Game at  2:00pm.