RIVIER SNEAKS PAST MEN'S BASKETBALL, 53-52

Nashua, NH - Junior Tom Poitras (Bow, NH) scored 21 points including the eventual game winner, as the Rivier University Men's Basketball team defeated the visiting Emmanuel College Saints, 53-52 in a thrilling Great Northeast Athletic Conference contest this afternoon at the Muldoon Gymnasium.

With less than 30 seconds on the clock, Rivier freshman Edward Soucie (South Ryegate, VT) attempted a three pointer that fell short. Before the ball could hit the ground, Poitras collected the rebound and laid it off the backboard to give the Raiders a one-point advantage. Emmanuel did make a last second shot attempt that hit the rim but did not fall in.

Rivier junior Nick Walch (Dedham, MA) continues to be a factor in most of the games this season as he was able record 14 points and 6 rebounds. Junior Mike Polley (Nashua, NH) contributed 6 points off the bench and Poitras finished with 11 rebounds – his first double-double of the season.

Emmanuel, who held a 32-23 halftime lead, was led by senior swingman Connor Morgan (Glocester, RI). Morgan connected on 5-of-7, including four three pointers for his team-high 16 points. Senior forward Xavier Everson (Rochester, NY) earned a double-double as he had 11 points and 10 rebounds on the afternoon. Junior center Theo Robinson (Springfield, MA) also contributed with 13 points and seven rebounds off the bench.

Rivier (9-10 overall, 5-7 GNAC) will travel to Northfield, Vermont for their next contest which is scheduled for January 31^st against Norwich University. Back on January 19^th, the Raiders were able to earn a 60-46 victory over the Cadets at home. Emmanuel (4-14 overall, 4-7 GNAC) will also be on the road for their next contest as they travel to New Haven, CT on January 28^th to take on #18 Albertus Magnus College. 

*Release courtesy of Rivier University Sports Infomation Dept.