JAMAICA, N.Y. — The York College men's basketball team dropped their home opener to New Jersey City University, 82-45.

The Cardinals couldn't contain the Gothic Knights' powerful offense, which saw two Gothic Knights score in double digits. Jalen Harris finished with 22 points in and seven rebounds in 20 minutes, while Kevin Brown had 11 points and seven rebounds.

New Jersey City showed why they were voted the No. 1 ranked team in the NJAC preseason coaches poll as they held a comfortable lead throughout the entire game. The Gothic Knights gained a 15-5 lead just eight minutes into the game. New Jersey City led 41-20 at the half and York was not able to tighten the gap in the second half.

The Cardinals struggled with shooting, finishing with a 22% field goal percentage versus New Jersey City's 43%. York had 26 turnovers to which New Jersey City took advantage, scoring 34 points off the turnovers. York also held a large free throw edge over NJCU (38-26) but couldn't take advantage, making just 55 percent of its shots from the charity stripe.
 
Ryan Smart led York finishing with 14 points and 12 rebounds.  Ryan St. John chipped in seven points and Sasha Clarida had three steals. The Cardinals' bench contributed 13 points.
 
York's next game will be against Villa Maria College in the Buffalo State Coles Classic on Friday night at 6 p.m.