NEW YORK — Penn State Berks (1-6, 0-0 United East) secured their first win of the season with a decisive 74-54 victory over Hunter College (0-6, 0-0 CUNYAC) on Saturday at Hunter College Sportsplex. The Nittany Lions capitalized on turnovers, converting 15 steals into 31 points to dominate the matchup.
Penn State Berks started strong, quickly establishing a lead with a series of successful three-pointers. Marquis Ferreira connected on back-to-back shots from beyond the arc, putting the visiting team ahead early. Strong defensive plays, including multiple steals and defensive rebounds, kept Hunter from gaining momentum.
Throughout the first half, Berks maintained control with efficient shooting and ball movement, highlighted by assists from multiple players, including Matthew Gingerich. By the end of the first half, The Lions had built a 38-18 lead over Hunter, leveraging their defensive pressure and bench contributions to sustain a comfortable advantage.
The second half commenced with Penn State Berks sustaining their momentum, highlighted by Quentin Wright's defensive block at 18:48 and a subsequent defensive rebound that set the tone. Ferreira and Gingerich connected on early jumpers and three-pointers, expanding their lead. Despite Hunter's attempts to close the gap, including a three-pointer by Demetrios Kontos at 17:23, Berks sustained their offensive pace.
As the half progressed, Berks maximized on their rebounding edge, led by Isaiah Cotten and Gabriel Harrison. The visitors continued to extend their lead with a series of successful three-pointers, including a notable contribution from Luke Collins at 14:55. Hunter made intermittent scoring efforts, but Berks' consistent scoring and defensive efforts, including key plays from Jaedon Mast and Henry Michel III, ensured they kept a comfortable margin.
The half closed with Berks holding onto their lead, ending with a solid defensive stand and a tip-in by Berkay Callan, securing a tie in the half score of 36-36. The overall score reflected Berks' strong performance, with a significant lead of 74-54.
Cotten posted a double-double with 14 points and 11 rebounds, while also recording three steals. Ferreira scored 18 points, including four 3-pointers, and added four assists. Gingerich contributed 14 points and four 3-pointers, while also collecting five assists and three steals. Collins added nine points, converting three 3-pointers and registering two steals.
WHO'S NEXT
Up next for the Nittany Lions is a home game against Washington College (Md.) on Monday, Nov. 24. Tip-off is set for 5:30 p.m. in Reading, Pennsylvania.
FOLLOW US
Fans can keep up with Berks Athletics all season long on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube using the handle @BerksAthletics.
