MORRISTOWN, N.J. (NOVEMBER 8, 2018) - The FDU-Florham men's basketball team fell in their season opening match-up against The College of Saint Elizabeth 73-65 Thursday night.

The Devils found themselves playing from behind for most of the first half once they fell behind 11-12 with 12:16 left in the half. This was the start to a 6-0 Eagle run which made the score 16-11 in favor of Saint Elizabeth. The Devils would cut the lead back down to one when Dixon hit a jump shot to make 22-21.

After trading baskets, the Devils were still down one after junior Andy Fleurantin's three but a quick 7-0 Eagle run fueled by two lay-ups and a corner three pushed the score to 34-26 with under two minutes remaining in the half. Three free throws by senior Tyler Christie was able to cut the Eagles lead to 34-29 heading into halftime.

The teams traded shots to open half, and a Fleurantin layup with 12:04 left gave FDU a brief lead. With the score knotted at 58, St. Elizabeth went on a 10-0 spurt over the next two minutes to pull in front for good. The Devils could cut the lead down to five, as Cam Tucker converted four free throws down the stretch to keep the Devils from catching up.

Sophomore Shawn Smith finished with a team-high 17 points and seven assists, while junior Rajaan Dixon totaled nine points and 10 boards.

The Devils open up their home slate Sunday, hosting Yeshiva Sunday afternoon at 1 p.m.