NEWARK, N.J. – Rutgers-Newark carried early momentum into halftime, but a decisive third quarter proved costly as the Scarlet Raiders fell to Kean University, 65-54, in New Jersey Athletic Conference action at the Golden Dome.

Rutgers-Newark got off to a strong start behind Nicole Timario, who sparked the offense with eight points in the opening quarter. The Scarlet Raiders built a 15-9 lead after one, setting the tone defensively.

In the second quarter, Kean began to find its rhythm, leaning on its bench for a boost. The Cougars' reserves combined for eight points in the period, helping Kean stay within striking distance. Despite the push, Rutgers-Newark took a 28-25 lead into halftime.

The momentum shifted sharply in the third quarter. Rutgers-Newark struggled to generate offense, recording just one made field goal, while Kean shot 61.5 percent from the floor. A 10-0 Cougars run midway through the quarter broke the game open, as Kean outscored Rutgers-Newark 24-6 in the period to take a 49-34 lead heading into the fourth.

The Scarlet Raiders showed improved offensive production in the final quarter, increasing their scoring output and battling to close the gap. However, the hole created in the third quarter proved too large to overcome, as Kean held on for the conference win.

Individually, Nicole Timario led the Scarlet Raiders with 16 points, while Sanaa Brodie added 13 points and eight rebounds in the effort.

The Scarlet Raiders will travel to Rowan on Saturday for another NJAC matchup against the Profs.

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