PLEASANTVILLE, N.Y. – Behind a dominant second-half surge, Pace University Men's Basketball powered its way to a 62-51 victory on Wednesday night inside the Goldstein Fitness Center. Paxton Davidson, Jaden Kealey, and Jabari Nurse led the charge as the Setters turned a tight first half into a confident Northeast 10 Conference opening win, improving to 2-1 on the season.

Pace found early momentum through its interior play, with Davidson establishing himself at the rim while Kealey and Nurse controlled the glass. After trading baskets throughout much of the opening half, the Setters leaned on timely bench production to spark a run.

David Dix provided an offensive lift off the bench, while Ethan Robertson and Saif Saleh steadied the defensive presence and kept the pace of the game in Pace's favor. A late push capped by strong finishes from Kealey and Davidson sent the Setters into the halftime break leading 31-27.

The Blue and Gold elevated their tempo in the second half, quickly stretching the margin behind efficient scoring and a tightened defensive front. Davidson continued to be a steady force, attacking the paint and finishing through contact, while Kealey's presence on the boards helped generate valuable second-chance opportunities.

Nurse added two key defensive stops and converted at the foul line as the Setters' lead grew. Robertson's seven points and seven rebounds, including a timely three-pointer in the first half, proved vital as Pace continued to apply pressure.

A late surge, highlighted by Davidson's strong drives and Dix's mid-range touch, helped Pace close out the contest comfortably.

The Setters shot a steady 46.3 percent from the field while holding their opponent under 41 percent, winning the rebounding battle 38-21 and converting 17 points off turnovers. The bench added 16 crucial points, contributing to the team's balanced offensive output.

Davidson led Pace with a team-high 14 points, followed closely by Kealey's 13-point, 11-rebound double-double.

Nurse added 12 points and eight boards, while Robertson contributed seven points, seven rebounds, and two steals. Dix and Saleh each chipped in six points to round out the scoring.

Fresh off their win, the Setters now prepare for a match-up against the College of Staten Island set for next Tuesday at 7:30 p.m. from the Goldstein Fitness Center.