Men’s Basketball Cruises Past Mercy in Season Opener, 76-56

DOBBS FERRY, N.Y. – The University of New Haven men’s basketball team opened its 2010-11 campaign on a high note, as the Chargers defeated Mercy College, 76-56, in a non-conference showdown on Saturday afternoon. In his first game with the program, head coach Ted Hotaling collected his first collegiate win, improving New Haven to 25-2 all-time against the Mavericks.

Stifling defense propelled the Chargers to a quick start in this one, holding the Mavericks to just 24 points in opening stanza. New Haven held Mercy to 33 percent shooting from the floor and forced four first half turnovers by the home team. Freshman Justin Exum led an efficient offensive attack, registering a half-high eight points on 3-of-4 shooting and pulled down four rebounds. After 20 minutes of action, UNH carried a 36-24 advantage into the locker rooms.

After the intermission, the Chargers opened the second half with a 6-0 run on back-to-back three-pointers from Exum. The 18 point advantage would be more than enough for the New Haven defense, as the game never reached a margin less than 12 points. Exum continued his hot shooting in the second frame adding 11 points to his total, propelling UNH to a 20 point victory.

Exum finished the game with 19 points on 7-of-10 shooting, including 5-of-7 from behind the arc. Senior Robert Jamerson recorded a double-double with 12 points and 12 rebounds, while Sean Harris added 12 points. Jeremy Williams also tallied double-figures with 10 points and Mike Stys knocked down two threes and two free-throws for eight points.

The Chargers couldn’t miss from downtown, shooting 50 percent from long distance going 12-of-24 from the floor. UNH also finished 26-of-55 (47 percent) from the field and connected on 12-of-16 free-throw attempts.

The Chargers return to action with their Northeast-10 Conference home-opener on Wednesday, November 17 against American International College. Tip-off is set for 5:30 p.m. at Charger Gymnasium.