UNION, N.J. - The SUNY Purchase men's basketball team kicked off the 2026-27 season Friday afternoon, falling at Kean Universtiy by the score of 86-62.
With the result, the Panthers dropped to 0-1, while the Cougars open the year 1-0.
In the first half, the hosts shot the ball, especially from long range as they converted 50 percent on 3-pointers.
As a result, the Blue and Orange trailed big at the half, 49-27. Following the break, the two sides played a much closer contest but the guests weren't able to close the gap.
Overall, Purchase shot 35.4 percent from the field and 21.4 percent on 3-pointers.
Individually,
Maurice Western (SO/Bronx, NY) led the way with a team-high 17 points.
Amar Jackson (SR/Brooklyn, NY) added 13 points, eight rebounds and two blocks, while
Desmond Ward (5th/Queens, NY) chipped in 11 points and nine rebounds.
Up next for the squad is the home opener, as the team welcomes SUNY New Paltz on November 10th at 6 p.m.
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