The Alfred State men's basketball team shot 54.5% from the field as they earned a 78-67 victory over NYU as they began a weekend trip to New York City. The Pioneers even up their record to 4-4.

The blue & gold trailed 10-9 but went on a 10-0 run to grab a 19-10 lead. They pushed the lead to as many as 10, 33-23, with just under six minutes left in the half and led 36-33 at the half. The Pioneers held off any comeback attempts by the Violets and earned the big victory.

Owen Spencer (Perry) led five Pioneers that finished in double figures with 18 points. Josh Reding (Rochester/Spencerport) finished with 13, Juwan Toliver (Buffalo/McKinley) had 12 points and seven assists, and Tahaij Lewis (Rochester/Churchville Chili) came off the bench and added 11 points and six boards. Dante Jordan (New York/Law & Public Service) rounded out the scoring with 10.

The Pioneers were 30 for 55 from the field, 5 for 18 from three, and 13 for 18 from the foul line. The Pioneers forced the Violets into 19 turnovers.

Dom Cristiano led NYU (3-4) with 25 points and 10 rebounds. Jimmy Martinelli finished with 19 and Bobby Hawkinson added 11. NYU was 27 for 59 from the field, 4 for 18 from three, and 9 for 11 from the line.

The Pioneers continue their weekend trip in New York City with a 4 p.m. contest at Medgar Evers.