ROCHESTER, N.Y. - After the last home game in March of 2020 for the Roberts Wesleyan Redhawks, the Men's Basketball team returned Sunday to start their season with a 91-85 win over Bryant & Stratton College from Buffalo, NY. 

With new COVID-19 protocols and no fans allowed to attend the games, the Men's Basketball team was able to use their own energy and excitement to spark their game play. Senior Forward Armon Nasseri scored the first bucket of 2021 just 45 seconds into the game, converting an and-one to start the game off. Throughout the first half, the Redhawks only gave up their lead twice and went into halftime with a 45-44 edge on the Bobcats.

The Redhawks started the second half hot, going on a 12-0 run to maintain their lead for the rest of the game. Senior Guard Reggie Clark knocked down a three-pointer just 13 seconds in to give the Redhawks a 4-point lead, not letting Bryant & Stratton score for the first four minutes of the half.

With five players in double-figures, the Redhawks finished shooting 44% from the field and 84% from the free throw line, compared to Bryant & Stratton's 52% from the line. Redshirt Freshman Ja'Kair Sanchez finished with a game-high 19 points in his first collegiate game. Nasseri netted 18 points and grabbed 8 rebounds, while guard trio Amari Lee, Reggie Clark, and Isaiah Lewis finished with 17, 16, and 11 points respectively.

"Just getting back on the floor, everyone was excited. I'm sure there were some nerves and anxiousness, but I think the fact that we were able to get out here and do everything we needed to do to make it happen was just a win in itself," Head Coach Mark Saladzius remarked.

The Redhawks are expected to return Saturday, January 16th, for gameplay, facing Niagara University in Niagara Falls, NY. The next home game is set for Sunday, January 24th, against Clarion University at 3 pm. Make sure to check out the live stream to support our Redhawks.