AMHERST, Mass. — Daniel Rivera made a significant impact on Sunday, scoring 16 points and grabbing 11 rebounds, helping the UMass Minutemen secure an 80-68 victory over NJIT.

Rivera’s performance was complemented by Marqui Worthy, who contributed 12 points with an efficient shooting display, hitting 5 of 9 attempts from the field. Shahid Muhammad also made his mark, finishing with 10 points, shooting perfectly on field goals at 3 for 3, and adding 4 of 7 from the free-throw line.

On the other side, Tariq Francis was the standout performer for the Highlanders, putting up an impressive 24 points. Sebastian Robinson supported the effort with 14 points, while Tim Moore Jr. rounded out the scoring for NJIT with nine points and secured 11 rebounds.

UMass established their dominance early, taking the lead just 64 seconds into the game and maintaining it throughout. By halftime, the Minutemen had a comfortable 41-24 lead, with Rivera scoring eight points in the first half. A strong start to the second half, including a 7-0 run, allowed UMass to widen the gap to 17 points. Although NJIT outscored UMass by five points in the second half, it wasn’t enough to overcome the Minutemen’s lead, thanks largely to Rivera’s performance that included eight additional points in the latter half.

UP NEXT: Both teams are scheduled to play again this Wednesday, with UMass set to take on Central Connecticut State at home, while NJIT is on the road to face Seton Hall.