GLASSBORO, N.J. – Eastern University Men's Basketball used dominant late runs to win the opening two games of the 2024-25 schedule. Tonight, however, the host Rowan University Profs (1-2) flipped the script with a 27-7 run over an eight-minute stretch in the second half to pull away to a 79-61 win. 

The Eagles were within a point at 42-41when Khalif Mears went to the line and split a pair of free throws. When his second shot missed the mishandled defensive rebound went into the basket, and the game went sideways fast. The Profs went 8-of-15 from the floor and made all seven of their foul shots while the Eagles had seven turnovers and only seven points. 

The Eagles (2-1) were only 2-for-19 from deep for the game and 21-of-68 overall, but with good defense they had managed to stay within a couple possessions through the first 27 minutes. Arkese Claiborne, who finished the game with 12 points, converted a three-point play to pull the Eagles to within a point at 42-41. After a defensive stop, the Eagles actually had a shot to take their first lead of the contest, but Mears ran out on a long rebound. Olise Onyeka denied the dunk attempt, but was called for a foul. 

Eastern shot 10-of-33 with only one made 3-pointer in falling behind 32-28 at halftime. Zubair Lee had nine points, but he made only 2-of-8 from the floor in the half. He finished the game with 12 points and 10 rebounds. Josh Harris had ten points and five rebounds off the bench. Onyeka had ten rebounds and six blocked shots but was held to just two points. 

Mears led the Profs with 23 points. 

The Eagles are at Dickinson for a 4pm game on Saturday.