MADISON, N.J. (Nov. 19, 2016) — Despite a breakout performance from freshman guard Riley Collins, and a double-double from Sophomore forward Nate Aldrich, the Drew University men's basketball team dropped the title game of the Rose City Classic, 84-78, to NYU on Saturday evening.
 
This particular matchup occurred once before, with NYU defeating Drew 72-49 in 2006. 10 years later, the Violets have won the title again.
 
Top Performers: Collins was a constant offensive force, dropping 16 points in 18 minutes of play. Aldrich contributed his fourth career double-double in the setback, netting 18 points (8-14 FG%) and grabbing 11 rebounds. Junior guard Yonathan Napoleon and sophomore guard Darius Reiter pitched in 14 points each, with Reiter adding six rebounds.
 
Sophomore guard Joey Feinberg turned in 10 points, five assists, and four rebounds including some pivotal late-game baskets to keep Drew in it untill the very end.
 
Turning Point: The Violets spurred a 7-0 run with the score tied at 67-67 and just under three minutes to play. This rally was enough to carry them to the title.
 
Stat Sheet: The teams shot nearly identically with NYU posting a 42 field goal percentage to Drew's 41. The Rangers forced 13 turnovers, while committing just nine of their own, due in large part to sophomore guard Dan Roibal's two steals and intangible, physical presence on the defensive end.
 
NYU got to the foul line for 29 tries and converted 20 to Drew's 11.
 
Other Highlights: Collins showed off his physical prowess and sensitivity in close when he sprinted coast-to-coast in the closing minutes of the first half to put the Rangers up by five. He hit the ensuing free throw for the 3-point play.
 
Up Next: With the 2016 edition of the Classic behind them, the Rangers embark on a four-game road trip beginning at King's (Pa) College on Tuesday, Nov. 22^nd at 7:00 p.m.