BALTIMORE - The Notre Dame of Maryland men's basketball team could not overcome an early deficit, falling to Saint Elizabeth University by a score of 93-64 on Saturday, Jan. 27.  

The Eagles stormed out of the gates, scoring the first 11 points of the game. NDMU finally got on the board when K'Won Johnson knocked down a pull up jumper. Cole Matthews then found Jahbreco Dacosta for a layup. Saint Elizabeth continued to put points on the board, shooting over 73% from the floor in the first half. The Eagles used a 7-2 run to push their lead to 17 points. NDMU tried to fight back with Jermaine Koger Jr. finishing back-to-back layups to pull back within 13 points. Daruan Gray then swished a 3-pointer to slash the lead back to 10 points. Saint Elizabeth answered right back, going on an 8-0 run, that allowed them to hold a 47-32 lead at the half.  

Gray tried to jump start NDMU's offense in the second half, nailing a 3-pointer from the wing. Dacosta and Koger Jr. each scored a layup to keep the Gators within striking distance. The teams traded baskets with Gray hitting another 3-pointer to pull back within 12 points. Saint Elizabeth took control of the game going on a 10-2 run to seize momentum. NDMU struggled to keep pace down the stretch eventually falling by a score of 93-64.  

INSIDE THE NUMBERS 

• Dacosta led the Gators with 13 points along with a team-high eight rebounds.  

• Koger Jr. scored 12 points while gathering seven rebounds.  

• Pugh attacked the basket, scoring 10 points and dishing out five assists. 

• Matthews made an impact off the bench, scoring 10 points while 3-3 from the field.  

• Saint Elizabeth was led by Tye-Rell Monroe who scored 21 points.  

WHO'S NEXT? 
The Gators will take a break, with no midweek game this week, and then travel to face Clarks Summit University on Saturday, Feb. 3. The tip-off is scheduled for 3:00 PM.  

STAY CONNECTED 
Fans can keep up with NDMU Athletics all season long on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube using the handle @ndmgatorsports.