The College of Staten Island men's basketball team triumphed over Mercy University, winning 90–79 in their East Coast Conference opener. The Dolphins built a substantial lead against the Mavericks, reaching halftime at 46–30 and eventually improving to 1–0 in conference play and 5–3 overall. Notably, rookie Andrew Benedict made waves with his first double-double, contributing 10 points and a career-high 14 rebounds. The team remained undefeated at home, showcasing solid teamwork and offensive execution throughout the game.

By the Numbers
  • Andrew Benedict registered his first double-double with 10 points and 14 rebounds.
  • Goldstein and Chestnut both scored 21 points, with Chestnut shooting an impressive 8–9 from the field.
Yes, But

While the Dolphins secured the win, their performance saw Mercy University trim a 20-point lead down to 10, highlighting potential defensive vulnerabilities that may need addressing in future games.

State of Play
  • The Dolphins are currently 1–0 in ECC play and 5–3 overall, continuing to leverage their home-court advantage.
  • Upcoming game against St. Thomas Aquinas College adds intensity to their conference schedule, testing their capabilities further.
What's Next

Looking ahead, the Dolphins must maintain their momentum against St. Thomas Aquinas, aiming to solidify their standing in the ECC and build on their previous successes.

Bottom Line

The Dolphins’ strong start to conference play highlights their potential, but sustained success will depend on addressing any defensive lapses and continuing to harness their offensive firepower.