Fort Myers, FL - Monroe secured a hard-fought 71- 68 win over Miami Dade on Friday afternoon, delivering a complete team effort and clutch execution down the stretch at Suncoast Credit Union Arena.
The Mustangs were powered by a dominant interior and rebounding presence, finishing with 47 boards, including 15 on the offensive glass, which turned into a decisive 20 second-chance points.
Nick Williams posted a near-double-double with 16 points and 9 rebounds, playing a vital role in Monroe's response every time MDC threatened to pull away. Naceiar Kirksey added 13 points, including a crucial three at the 40-second mark to extend the lead to 68-63.
Freshman guard Nico Pena added 10 points and two triples, while Faquir Mosley finished with 11 points and 8 assists, controlling long stretches of the offense and creating timely buckets late.
After falling behind by 11 midway through the first half, Monroe closed strong to take a 35-31 lead into the locker room. The second half was a back-and-forth battle with seven ties and multiple lead changes.
With the game tied 61-61 entering the final three minutes, Monroe's toughness on the glass took over. Abraham Rosario's key tip-ins and rim protection fueled a late push, and the Mustangs converted 11-of-15 at the stripe in the half to preserve the lead.
Kirksey hit four clutch free throws in the final minute, and after a defensive stop with seven seconds left, Mosley split a pair to extend the lead to three. Monroe's defense held on the final possession to seal the victory.
The Mustangs leave Fort Myers 1-1 and will return back to the Northeast as they'll play a series of games in Maryland before coming back to the MAC on December 6th.
ABOUT THE ATHLETIC PROGRAM AT MONROE UNIVERSITY
The athletic program at Monroe University encompasses a total of 26 teams competing across nine sports. There are 19 varsity and junior varsity programs, as well as the Monroe University marching band, competing on the New Rochelle campus as the Mustangs (NJCAA Division I). The Monroe Express, based out of the Bronx campus, has seven teams competing at the NJCAA Division III level.
For more information about the Monroe Mustangs, please visit us at www.MonroeUMustangs.com or follow us on social media: Facebook (Monroe Mustangs Athletics), Twitter (@MonroeMustangs) and Instagram (@monroemustangs).
