NEWARK, N.J. — Rutgers–Newark saw a strong first half slip away as Kean University rallied late and outlasted the Scarlet Raiders 72–68 in overtime Wednesday night at The Golden Dome.
In a tale of two halves, the teams traded baskets early before Rutgers–Newark took control midway through the first half. The Scarlet Raiders erupted on a decisive 12–0 run to push their lead to 14, fueled by efficient offense and a zone defense that disrupted Kean's rhythm. Rutgers shot 50 percent in the opening half while holding the Cougars to just 25.8 percent from the floor, forcing tough looks throughout the half. CJ Karris provided a spark off the bench with five quick points, energizing the home crowd, while Ayden Brown and Raheem Murray each scored nine points as Rutgers carried a 34–18 lead into the break.
The momentum shifted after halftime as Kean found its offensive rhythm. Midway through the second half, the Cougars went on a 10–0 run, using the three-point shot to climb back into the game. A blistering stretch from deep carried Kean back into the game, as eight second-half three-pointers matched Rutgers–Newark's total made shots in the half and erased the double digit lead. A late three and layup from Kareem Irby capped the comeback for Kean and sent the game to overtime.
Kean carried that surge into the extra period, scoring the first eight points of overtime to seize control. Rutgers–Newark responded, settling in defensively and getting back within striking distance behind clutch three-pointers from Zahkai Sylvester and Eli'sha Brown, trimming the gap to one point with 13 seconds remaining.
After intentional fouling, Rutgers sent Daniel Dextraze to the line for a one-and-one. Dextraze missed the front end, and Sylvester was fouled on the rebound, sending him to the stripe with a chance to give the Scarlet Raiders the lead. Sylvester missed both free throws, and Kean added a point at the line moments later. A turnover on the ensuing inbound sealed Rutgers–Newark's fate as the Cougars closed out the 72–68 overtime victory.
Raheem Murray led the Scarlet Raiders with 17 points, while Eli'sha Brown filled the stat sheet with 10 points, 14 rebounds, four assists, and four blocks, anchoring the effort on both ends of the floor.
The Scarlet Raiders will travel to Rowan on Saturday for another NJAC matchup against the Profs.
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