WORCESTER, Mass. – The Roger Williams University Men's Basketball Team dropped their season opening matchup against Clark, 84-82, at the Hurts Court on the campus of the Cougars Saturday.

Clark (1-0) took a narrow 43-40 lead into halftime, powered by an offensive showcase from Isaiah Taylor, who scored a game-high 24 points, including two three-pointers. Bruce Saintilus added a solid 20 points, while Reid Neumann chipped in with 12 points, hitting 4-of-8 from three-point range.

Roger Williams (0-1) put up a strong fight, led by Mac Annus (Belmont, Mass.) and Nate Lopes (Scituate, Mass.), each with 21 points. Finn Miller (Stamford, Conn.) registered a double-double with 12 rebounds and 17 points. Ty Higgins (New Marlborough, Mass.) contributed 13 points, including three three-pointers.

The game saw ten ties and eight lead changes, with both teams displaying strong inside presence. Roger Williams outscored Clark 44-42 in the paint, while Clark had the edge in fast-break points (10-3) and second-chance points (12-4), capitalizing on 11 offensive rebounds.

In the final minute, Clark's Jordan Richard drained a crucial three-pointer to give the Cougars an 84-82 lead. The Hawks closed out the contest, with a shot by Lopes, but Quentin Pridgen was able to cover with a block to end the contest.

Roger Williams (0-1, 0-0 CNE) will host Coast Guard on Wednesday, Nov. 13 at 6:00 pm. The Hawks will then host Rivier on Saturday, Nov. 16 at 3:00 pm.