ROCKVILLE CENTRE, N.Y. — The D'Youville University men's basketball team (3-12, 3-4 ECC) fell to Molloy University 84-76 on Friday night at Bob Houlihan Gymnasium. 

The first half began with the Saints establishing an early lead as Elisha Warren hit a three-pointer just 15 seconds into the game. DYU displayed effective ball movement, recording 10 assists, with Maxence Massadila contributing significantly in this area. Kevin Thompson proved pivotal in extending D'Youville's advantage, hitting three consecutive three-pointers between the 6:52 and 6:03 marks, pushing the score to 28-19. Despite the Lions closing the gap with consistent free-throw shooting, DYU managed to maintain a narrow lead, ending the half up 34-33.

The Saints initiated a surge early in the second half, highlighted by a Sean Reynolds three-pointer at 18:35, giving them a 37-35 lead. Marko Milivojevic expanded the advantage with a three-point play at 17:39, pushing the visitors ahead 40-37. Despite DYU's efforts, the Lions responded robustly, and the teams found themselves tied at 62 after Warren's three-pointer at 8:20. In a tense final stretch, D'Youville struggled to maintain their edge as the Lions capitalized on late-game free throws, ultimately concluding the half with a 51-42 advantage. The game ended with the Lions securing an 84-76 victory.

Massadila recorded 11 assists and added two steals, showcasing his playmaking capabilities. Reynolds scored 12 points, converting four three-pointers to lead his team's long-range efforts. Warren contributed 11 points, including three three-pointers, to bolster the offensive output. Nathan Andrice finished with 11 points and recorded three blocks, impacting both ends of the court.

Looking ahead, D'Youville will travel to face Queens College on Sunday, Jan. 18. The game is set for 3:30 p.m. at the Queens College campus in Flushing, New York.