PLEASANTVILLE, N.Y. – Pace University Men's Basketball delivered a strong first-half performance Saturday afternoon, but Wilmington University of Delaware pulled away late to hand the Setters a 78–71 setback in Northeast 10 Conference action. The result moves the Blue and Gold to 4–3 overall and 1–1 in league play.

Pace set the tone early behind an efficient offensive rhythm and confident perimeter shooting. Paxton Davidson led the charge, connecting on six three-pointers in the opening half as the Setters shot over 60 percent from the field before the break. Jabari Nurse added timely scoring from deep, while Jaden Kealey and Jayden James finished strong at the rim to keep Pace in control.

The Blue and Gold answered every push from Wilmington and carried a 44–40 lead into halftime following a late three-pointer that energized the home crowd.

The second half turned into a physical battle as Wilmington slowly swung momentum behind trips to the free-throw line. Pace continued to fight, with Davidson and Nurse knocking down key baskets to keep the game within reach. Kealey battled on the glass and scored through contact, while Ethan Robertson provided a lift in the paint during critical stretches. Despite late finishes from James and Robertson, Wilmington capitalized at the line in the closing minutes to seal the result.

Davidson finished with a game-high 22 points, while Nurse followed with 20 points to lead the Setters. Kealey added 10 points and seven rebounds, and James chipped in nine points as Pace stayed competitive until the final horn.

The Setters return to action Tuesday night, hosting Georgian Court University at the Goldstein Fitness Center with tip-off set for 7:30 p.m.