BRYANT MEN FALL IN OPENER, 85-63

November 15, 2006 / Box score

Junior Jon Ezeokoli had 24 points and drained five 3-point field goals vs. Philadelphia Wednesday. www.dspics.com

PHILADELPHIA, Pa. - Bryant junior forward Jon Ezeokoli scored 24 points on 9 of 17 shooting but it was not enough as the Philadelphia Rams handed the Bulldogs an 85-63 setback in the team's 2006-07 season opener Wednesday night. The Bulldogs shot 43.3 percent from the floor in the game and will look for its first win on the season when the team hosts American International College Saturday night (7:30 pm) at the Chace Athletic Center.

The Bulldogs (0-1) allowed Philadelphia to shoot a blistering 58.6 percent from the floor in the first half, making 17 of 29 shots from the floor in racing out to a commanding 50-33 lead at the half.

Ezeokoli had the hot hand for the Bulldogs, making 9 of 17 shots from the floor and draining five 3-point field goals plus added seven rebounds.  Senior guard Chris Burns was held to eight points in 33 minutes of action while sophomore Jerrann Wright added 11 points on a solid 5 of 8 shooting from the field.

Ryan McLean added four points and eight rebounds. 

Philadelphia's Christian Burns scored 24 points and grabbed 16 rebounds to lead the Rams (1-0).  Jason Hickenbottom added 17 points and 10 rebounds as the entire starting five for Philadelphia reached double figures. Guard Russell Frederick had 11 points and dished out 10 assists.