MONTCLAIR, NJ — The Rutgers University–Newark men's basketball team fell to Montclair State, 85–61, in an NJAC road matchup Saturday afternoon at the Panzer Athletic Center.

Rutgers-Newark stayed within striking distance through a competitive first half, trailing just 39–37 at the break. The Scarlet Raiders received strong production from their bench in the opening half, totaling 20 points from reserves. A 7–0 run late in the half helped Rutgers-Newark close the gap and keep the contest tight heading into halftime.

Montclair State took control coming out of the locker room, opening the second half with a decisive 17–4 run that pushed the lead into double digits. Rutgers-Newark struggled to find an offensive rhythm in the second half, shooting 30 percent from the field as Montclair pulled away in the half.

Turnovers proved costly for the Scarlet Raiders, who committed 32 turnovers that Montclair State converted into 40 points. Preston Brown led Rutgers-Newark with 13 points and seven rebounds, while Zahkai Sylvester and Raheem Murray each chipped in 11 points.

Rutgers-Newark will look to regroup as NJAC play continues, turning its focus to a home matchup with NJCU on Wednesday.

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