PLEASANTVILLE, N.Y. – Despite a strong second-half push, the Pace University men's basketball team dropped to 3-2 overall and 1-1 in Northeast 10 play after a 75-64 setback against Assumption on Wednesday evening at the Goldstein Fitness Center. The Setters trimmed the margin late but saw the visiting Greyhounds hold steady down the stretch.
Assumption grabbed momentum early, while Pace worked to settle in offensively.
Jayden James opened the scoring for the Setters with a basket in the paint, and
Paxton Davidson later connected from beyond the arc to help keep Pace within range.
Jabari Nurse provided a burst midway through the half with consecutive inside finishes as the Blue and Gold began to find rhythm, but Assumption maintained control and carried a 38-27 advantage into halftime.
The Setters responded with renewed energy in the second half, shooting over 55 percent from the floor. Davidson scored consistently to lead the charge, while
Jaden Kealey battled on the glass and created second-chance opportunities. Nurse continued his aggressive play on both ends, and James attacked the rim to keep Pace within striking distance.
Pace cut the deficit to 11 points in the closing minutes, but Assumption answered each push to prevent a full comeback.
Davidson led Pace with 18 points, knocking down three three-pointers. Nurse followed with 14 points and five rebounds, while James finished with 11 points.
Kealey led the Setters on the boards with nine rebounds, and the Blue and Gold held a 40-32 advantage in points in the paint.
The Setters hit the road in Northeast 10 play this coming weekend, traveling to American International College on Saturday, with tip-off scheduled for 3:30 p.m.