PLEASANTVILLE, N.Y. – On the final day of the 2025 Conference Challenge, Pace University Men's Basketball put forth a strong effort and controlled large stretches of the opening half, but a late push from Queens College proved the difference as the Setters fell 65-59 on Sunday. The Blue and Gold now stand at 1-1 in the young season.

Pace's opening 20 minutes showcased sharp ball movement, efficient shot-making, and balanced scoring. The Setters hit 61 percent of their field goals in the first half and held Queens in check for long stretches, responding to every early Knights run with strong interior play and timely shooting. A steady mix of transition baskets and half-court execution propelled Pace to a 36-30 advantage at the break, highlighted by inside scoring from Jayden James, reliable free-throw work from Jaden Kealey, and perimeter contributions from Ethan Robertson, Paxton Davidson, and Jabari Nurse.

Queens came out of halftime with renewed energy, steadily chipping away at the six-point margin as both teams traded stops and short scoring bursts. Pace maintained its lead through the early minutes thanks to a couple of solid makes and a strong effort on the glass. The Setters continued to generate good looks through the late stages of the period, and a driving finish from Robertson that tied the game at 59-59 with just over a minute remaining.

In the final minute, however, Queens capitalized on second-chance opportunities and late free throws to push ahead. The Setters had multiple chances in the closing seconds, including a fast-break look and a final defensive stand, but the Knights converted at the line and added a transition basket in the final seconds to seal the 65-59 result.

James led Pace with 15 points and eight rebounds, turning in one of his strongest performances of the season. Kealey posted a physical double-digit rebounding effort, finishing with 12 boards and nine points, while Nurse, Robertson, and Davidson each added nine points. The Setters outrebounded Queens 40-35 and held the Knights to just 31.7 percent shooting, including 25 percent from beyond the arc.

The Setters return to action on Wednesday at 7:00 p.m., hosting American International College at the Goldstein Athletics Center.