Box Score Box l Updated stats
ROCHESTER, N.Y. -- The Pioneers' journey to Nazareth College resulted in a 93-84 loss to the fiesty Golden Flyers. Senior Jack Giles led Nazareth with 19 total points and senior Brad Ford grabbed 17 total boards. 

The Golden Flyers are currently 3-2 in the E8 conference with a 9-5 overall record. The Pioneers are 6-8 overall and 1-4 in conference games.

The Golden Flyers came out strong in the first half leading the Pioneers 13-0 in the first four minutes of play. Mitch Ford set the tone with a jumper immediately after tip-off. Sophomore Maurice Mills contributed to the early run with a jumper. Nazareth continued an early lead over Utica by 10 points for the first 10 minutes. Seniors Jack Giles and Scott Hayford proved to be solid contributors combining for five three-point field goals in the first half. The Golden Flyers held the lead the entire first half  with a narrow margin of 43-42 at the break.

Naz came out strong to start the second half, but were unable to shake the Pioneers. After a few lead changes in the second half, Nazareth was able to control the game. The Golden Flyers led by six points with two minutes to go, and the veteran leaders were able to close the game with a strong 93-84 victory.

Aaron Nevins of Utica contributed 26 points to the Pioneers. Chris Jeffers added 14 points before fouling out with 3:30 left in the second half. The Golden Flyers were able to take advantage of this with excellent defensive play from Sophomore Maurice Mills and Junior Mitch Ford. In addition to tough defensive play, the Golden Flyers sunk 12 of 16 free throws in the last two minutes of the game to clench the win.

Nazareth had a high three-point shooting percentage of over 40% and were 25-30 from the line overall.

The Golden Flyers will host 4-10 Ithaca at 2 pm in the Kidera Gymnasium tomorrow, Saturday January 18th.