READING, Pa. – The Neumann University men's basketball team fell at Alvernia University 86-79 on Tuesday evening the 2022-23 season opener.

Jalen Vaughns led four Knights in double-digits with 24 points and grabbed10 rebounds, notching a double-double. Tony James netted 14 points and grabbed eight rebounds. TJ Lewis tallied 12 points and Ryan Starr added 11. Mike Tabasso scored nine points in his first game with Neumann.

The Golden Wolves scored the first five points of the game and never trailed. Five minutes into the game, Alvernia built a 17-8 advantage.         With 11:57 on the clock, a jumper by James pulled the Knights to within one, 18-17. The Golden Wolves when went on a 17-5 run for a 35-22 lead with 8:11 left before halftime.

Neumann pulled to within seven, 44-37, with 1:45 on the clock. Alvernia scored the final six points of the half to take a 50-37 score into the break.

The Golden Wolves held a lead ranging from nine to 18 throughout most of the second half. A jumper by James with 6:06 on the clock brought the Knights to within seven, 71-64. After trading free throws, Alvernia scored a three-pointer and a foul for a four-point play and an 11-point advantage. James hit a jumper with 39 seconds on the clock for a five-point game, 84-79. The Golden Wolves followed with two free throws and the Knights ran out of time to complete the comeback.

Neumann (0-1) will head to Lebanon Valley College to compete in the Rinso Marquette Tournament this weekend. The Knights will face New Jersey City University on Friday beginning at 6:00 PM.