Cold shooting dooms Monroe in conference opener
Niagara prevails, 77-60.
SANBORN, New York - The MCC men's basketball team had a tough start to the Western New York Athletic Conference portion of its schedule on Wednesday, as the Tribunes dropped a 77-60 decision to host Niagara County Community College.
Monroe (0-1 WNYAC, 8-9 overall)) struggled from the field all game, hitting just 31 percent from the floor overall (23-of-72), and 28 percent from beyond the arc (5-of-18). The Thunderwolves (1-0, 17-4) carried an eight-point lead into the half and proceeded to pull away with 46 points over the final 20 minutes.
Rebounding was also key for Niagara, which held a 57-40 edge on the glass. The Thunderwolves were led by Fode Camara, who totaled 21 points, 10 rebounds, and four assists.
Irwayne Connell Jr. led the Tribunes with 13 points off the bench. The sophomore forward also added seven rebounds and three blocked shots. Omari Brown and Wes Nelson Jr. tallied nine points apiece for MCC, which was held 13 points below its season scoring average.
Majesty Brandon, Gilberto Cue, and Rodney Johnson II all tacked on eight points each for Monroe.