Manhattan University Athletics

RIVERDALE, N.Y. – Manhattan's comeback attempt came up short in a 64-57 loss to Canisius on Friday night.
 
Manhattan (4-10, 2-3 MAAC) trailed by as many as 12 in the first half before coming back to take the lead multiple times in the second half. Canisius (3-11, 1-4) then outscored Manhattan 14-6 over the final four minutes to pick up the win.

"We have to take care of the basketball", said interim head coach RaShawn Stores after the game. "We can't give up 22 points off 19 turnovers and 18 second-chance points. We have to get better at that and get healthier. I was happy with how we defended the 3-point line, limiting Canisius to three [made field goals]."
 
The Jaspers trimmed a 12-point halftime deficit to one with a 17-6 stretch over the opening 5:40 of the second half. Ant Nelson and Josh Roberts supplied five apiece in the stretch that saw Manhattan draw within one, 38-37, with 14:20 to play.
 
Back-to-back buckets from Roberts and Samir Stewart gave Manhattan a 43-42 lead just past halfway. It was the Jaspers' first lead since 15-14. Manhattan would retake the lead after Raziel Hayun made three free throws, and Nick Brennen hit a 3-pointer to make it 49-46 with 7:22 to play.
 
After Brennen's triple, Canisius went on a 14-4 run to create separation. Jamir Moultrie scored seven in the decisive stretch. Stewart hit a 3-pointer to cut it 60-56 Canisius with 67 seconds to play. That would be as close as the Jaspers would get over the final minute.
 
TJ Gadsden had a game-high 16 points to lead the Golden Griffins. Moultrie finished with nine, and Xzavier Long added 13.
 
Roberts recorded his second double-double of the season with 13 points and 11 rebounds. Nelson and Stewart finished 13 points for the Jaspers. Nelson added five assists and two steals.
 
Manhattan returns to action on Sunday, Jan. 8, at 2 p.m. inside Draddy against Niagara. The game can be watched on ESPN3. Tickets for Sunday's contest can be purchased here.
 
For the latest on the Manhattan College men's basketball program, follow the Jaspers on Twitter @JaspersMBB and Instagram @Jaspers.MBB.