New Rochelle, NY — After a tightly contested opening quarter, Coach Seney's squad took control of the game and never looked back, earning an 88–55 victory over SUNY Niagara on Saturday to kick off the MLK Classic.
SUNY Niagara held a slim 19–17 edge after the first 10 minutes, but Monroe responded with a decisive second quarter. The Mustangs outscored the visitors 27–13 in the period, using efficient shooting and strong interior play to take a 44–32 lead into halftime.
Monroe continued to separate after the break, shooting at a high clip in the third quarter while limiting Niagara's scoring opportunities. The Mustangs extended the lead to 67–46 through three quarters behind balanced scoring and dominance on the glass.
The fourth quarter was all Monroe, as the Mustangs closed the game with a 21–9 advantage to seal the win. Monroe finished the afternoon shooting 50 percent from the field and nearly 40 percent from beyond the arc, while controlling the rebounding battle and capitalizing on turnovers throughout the contest.
Adela Cecunjanin led the Mustangs with 15 points, connecting on six field goals including three from long range. Bre Jefferson added 13 points and four assists, while Hellary De Los Santos posted a double-double with 10 points and 16 rebounds to anchor the paint. Sheridan Oberhand provided a spark off the bench, knocking down four three-pointers on her way to 12 points.
With the victory, Monroe improved to 11–6 on the season, continuing its strong play with a complete performance on both ends of the floor.
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).
