Hackettstown, N.J.: The Centenary University men's basketball team battled hard on Wednesday night but fell 94–83 to Gwynedd Mercy University in Atlantic East Conference action inside the John M. Reeves Student Recreation Center. The Cyclones competed throughout all 40 minutes and kept the contest within reach, but the Griffins' balanced scoring and efficient offense proved decisive down the stretch.

Centenary (5–11, 3–2 AEC) kept pace early and stayed competitive through a back-and-forth first half, trailing just 48–41 at the break. The Cyclones attacked the paint and shared the ball well, with Justin Carbone pacing the offense with a team-high 23 points, connecting on multiple three-pointers. Devin Strickland added 21 points, including timely baskets that helped Centenary stay within striking distance, and Naire Preston contributed 15 points, hitting shots from beyond the arc to keep the Cyclones in the game.

Kenneth Rankin chipped in 14 points, and Jasir Lane hauled in eight rebounds while scoring 7 points, giving Centenary extra effort on both ends of the floor. The Cyclones finished with just three bench points but played with energy and executed on offense, shooting 47.2% from the field and making several clutch free throws.

Despite Centenary's strong offensive night, Gwynedd Mercy's balanced attack — with four players scoring in double figures — and sustained pressure in the second half ultimately lifted the Griffins to the victory. The Cyclones will look to regroup and continue Atlantic East competition as the season progresses.