GALLATIN, TN – The Alfred University men's basketball team began the Music City Classic with a 73-53 loss to North Park University on Friday.
 
The Saxons (4-6, 1-1 Empire 8) relied on points from 10 different players as part of their efforts against the Vikings (5-7, 1-3 CCIW).
 
Tyler Curran (Allegany, NY/Allegany-Limestone) led Alfred University with nine points and two steals. Gabe Eldaye (Niskayuna, NY/Niskayuna) and Casey Curran (Allegany, NY/Allegany-Limestone) each added eight points for AU.
 
"I thought we competed and played hard," Head Coach Erich Kaempffe said. "I'm proud of that. We just had too many mistakes turning the ball over and consequently not getting back in transition. We're excited to get another chance to compete tomorrow."
 
Franlys Valenzuela (Santiago de los Cabelleros, Dominican Republic/San Ysidro) opened scoring for the Saxons. A 9-0 run by the Vikings was snapped thanks to a three-point shot by Eldaye. Amoi Charles (Elmont, NY/H. Frank Carey) scored the final five points for Alfred University in the first half, but North Park extended their lead and took a 38-25 advantage into the break. Nine different Saxons were able to score in the second half, but the Vikings continued to shoot well and ultimately secure the win.
 
Alfred University will next conclude the Music City Classic against Heidelberg University on Saturday at 4:00 PM.