Lawrence Township, N.J. - (12/20/2021) - In the first of two consecutive games scheduled against an National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) DI opponent this week, Gwynedd Mercy University (8-3) visited Rider University (4-8) for this evening's contest. The Broncos scored the first eight points of the contest, 8-0 (17:02) and used solid shooting advantage -  46.7% (28-of-60) to 38.8% (19-of-49) - to keep their distance from the Griffins in a 82-57 final. Sophomore guard Aziz Parker (Westhampton, N.J.) led Gwynedd Mercy University with 14 points, two rebounds, and two assists. Graduate guard Matt O'Connor (Philadelphia, Pa.) helped with 10 points, an assist, and two steals, while senior guard Ty Jones (Harlen, N.Y.) headlined the Griffins' bench effort with 14 points, five rebounds, an assist, and a steal.

Rider University's lead first reached double digits just before the 14-minute mark; 13-3 (14:03).A set of successful three-point shots from Parker (7:52) and Jones (9:31, 6:38) helped the Griffins whittle the Bronco lead to just three points, 26-23, heading to the final stretch of the first half. There, the home team regained their composure as they paced the Gwynedd Mercy University to a 40-27 (0:40) halftime spread. After intermission, Spencer made the first of two free throws to keep the Griffins within ten points, 46-36 (15:53), during the early going. Unfortunately, a couple of missed shots and a turnover allowed Rider University separate for a 20-point edge, 58-38, with 12:45 to play. Three minutes later the difference maxed at 28 points, 68-40 (9:27), before Jones helped Gwynedd Mercy University keep the final deficit respectable; 82-57.

Gwynedd Mercy University continues to test their mettle against NCAA DI competition on Wednesday, December 22, when they visit Lafayette College for a 7:00 p.m. tip-off.