BALTIMORE — In a thrilling matchup, Marcus Banks showcased his scoring ability with 35 points, helping UMBC overcome NJIT 95-91 on Saturday.
Banks demonstrated precision shooting, connecting on 11 of 20 attempts from the field and an impressive 9 of 15 from three-point territory. He also went perfect from the free-throw line, making all four of his attempts. This performance contributed significantly to the Retrievers’ record of 13 wins and 16 losses, with a 5-9 standing in the America East Conference.

Supporting Banks, Bryce Johnson had an outstanding game, finishing with 29 points from 12 of 21 shooting, which included 4 of 9 from beyond the arc. He also contributed with eight rebounds. Marlon Short added to the scoring with 19 points, making 6 of 10 from the field and also going 6 for 8 from the charity stripe, further solidifying the team’s offensive effort.

On the opposing side, NJIT’s Tariq Francis led the Highlanders with 27 points, along with seven rebounds and six assists. Quentin Duncan provided support with 18 points, while Tim Moore Jr. chipped in 16 points and grabbed eight rebounds. Unfortunately for NJIT, this defeat marked their sixth consecutive loss, dropping their record to 5 wins and 23 losses, with a 2-11 mark in conference play.

Both teams displayed resilience and skill, but it was UMBC’s explosive offensive performance that secured their victory in this closely contested game.