Rutherford NJ - Felician University Men's Basketball went on the road to Caldwell University this evening. In a matchup that was close to the very end, the Golden Falcons would be defeated 63-54. Here's what transpired during this matchup.

First Half - Felician showed flashes of grit and resilience throughout the first half against Caldwell, clawing back from an early deficit to keep the game competitive. Jabri Fitzpatrick led the charge for the Golden Falcons, consistently attacking the paint and contributing a game-high 11 first-half points. Fitzpatrick opened Felician's scoring with a strong layup, later adding a critical three-pointer and a pair of free throws to keep his team within striking distance. The Golden Falcons' defense began to settle midway through the half, highlighted by Jonathan Izemef and Tavian Pullock, who each recorded key blocks that denied Caldwell easy points. Pullock also energized Felician with a steal that turned into a fast-break layup, showcasing his hustle on both ends of the court. Jared White added valuable contributions, dishing out assists and sinking clutch free throws in the closing seconds to cut Caldwell's lead to just three at the break. Despite some early struggles from the field, Felician's persistence on the boards, led by Fitzpatrick and Izemef, helped keep them in the game. Their defensive pressure and timely scoring runs put them within striking distance, heading into halftime down 27-24.

Second Half - Felician displayed grit and determination throughout the second half, battling to keep the game within reach against Caldwell. Marcus Pierce stepped up as a key offensive force for the Golden Falcons, scoring critical points in the paint and converting a three-point play that helped Felician chip away at the deficit. Pierce finished with several clutch layups and free throws that kept the team competitive in the closing minutes. Jhonny Tovar provided vital support on both ends of the floor, sinking a smooth jumper early in the half and facilitating plays with timely assists. Defensively, Izemef and Pullock anchored Felician, with Izemef delivering multiple blocks to protect the rim and Pullock contributing with key rebounds and a momentum-boosting layup late in the game. Felician's persistence was evident in their hustle on the boards, with White and Jack Nieradko adding second-chance opportunities. Nieradko's three-pointer midway through the half was a spark for the Golden Falcons, while Fitzpatrick's presence on the glass kept Caldwell from pulling away entirely. Despite their efforts, turnovers and missed opportunities in the final minutes proved costly, as Caldwell's steady free-throw shooting closed the door on Felician's comeback bid. Felician fell short, but their spirited performance was a testament to their determination, finishing with a 63-54 loss.

The Golden Falcons get to have a few days off but go right back into conference play when they host against Dominican this Saturday at 3:30 PM!