Sacred Heart defeats NJIT 49-65

Sacred Heart Pulls Away from NJIT, 65-49

In a tightly contested matchup at the Joel & Diane Bloom Wellness and Events Center, Sacred Heart's visiting squad outlasted NJIT, 65-49, in a non-conference affair that showcased the Pioneers' balanced offense and stifling defense.

The game was a back-and-forth battle, with both teams trading baskets and neither able to pull away until the final stretch. The Pioneers took an early lead, but the Highlanders fought back, knotting the score at 24-24 at halftime. However, Sacred Heart's bench played a crucial role in the second half, scoring 17 points to NJIT's 8, and ultimately proving decisive in the outcome.

Nyle Ralph-Beyer led the way for Sacred Heart with 21 points on 5-for-8 three-point shooting (58.3% FG), while Dashon Gittens contributed a double-double of 16 points and 10 rebounds. Mekhi Conner chipped in with 7 assists, highlighting the Pioneers' excellent ball movement.

Ari Fulton led NJIT's offense with 11 points, but it wasn't enough to overcome Sacred Heart's stifling defense. The Pioneers held the Highlanders to just 28% shooting from the field and forced 10 turnovers, which they capitalized on for points off possessions.

The game was a contrast in style, with NJIT relying heavily on the interior game and big men Malachi Arrington and Sebastian Robinson. However, Sacred Heart's defense adjusted, shutting down the Highlanders' post play and forcing them to rely more on outside shots – which they struggled with, hitting just 21% of their attempts.

The final margin of 16 points reflected the Pioneers' dominance in the second half, as they outscored NJIT 37-24. Sacred Heart's balanced attack, combined with their stifling defense, proved too much for the Highlanders to overcome.

With the win, Sacred Heart moves its record to [insert record], while NJIT falls to [insert record]. The Pioneers' victory adds to their growing resume and sets them up for success in the Northeast Conference.