DAYTON, OH– The NJIT men's basketball team opened its 2026-27 campaign Monday night, falling 89-58 on the road against Dayton.
The Flyers seized control midway through the first half, using a 14-2 run to build a lead they would maintain for the remainder of the contest. Dayton carried a 47-23 advantage into the locker room after shooting 42.9 percent from the field and knocking down five three-pointers.
NJIT looked to find its offensive rhythm coming out of halftime, putting together a more productive second-half performance. The Highlanders scored 35 points after the break while shooting an improved 48.1 percent from the floor.
Sophomore Mathéo Coffi led NJIT offensively, recording a team-high 12 points while also pacing the Highlanders on the glass with five rebounds.
Junior Quentin Duncan and sophomore Mario Tatum Jr. also provided offensive contributions.
Duncan finished with nine points, including a pair of three-pointers, while Tatum Jr. added eight points. Junior John Kelly chipped in seven points, while freshman Victor Vanderstraeten and sophomore Brendan Oliver contributed six points apiece.
NJIT finished the night 20-of-58 from the field (34.5 percent). Dayton held a decisive advantage on the boards, outrebounding the Highlanders 50-28, and maintained its lead throughout the second half to secure the 89-58 victory.
NEXT UP
The Highlanders remain on the road as they continue play in the America East-Metro Challenge, traveling to face Iona on Thursday, November 5. Tipoff is scheduled for 7 p.m. at the Hynes Athletic Complex.
STAY CONNECTED
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