Seton Hall Finishes Non-Conference Tilt With Win Over Manhattan

On a rainy afternoon in Newark on Saturday, Seton Hall defeated Manhattan, 74-62, in matinee action at the Prudential Center.

In the early stages of the first half, Seton Hall had massive trouble dealing with Manhattan’s full court press defense. Numerous turnovers and rushed shots led to the Jaspers staying with the nationally ranked Pirates in the first half. Seton Hall coach Kevin Willard sat the big three of Desi Rodriguez, Khadeen Carrington, and Angel Delgado for a few minutes during the half after the early struggles.

The Pirates started to get back on track as Rodriguez continued his tremendous half finishing with 13 first-half points. Myles Powell also scored 13 points in the half before being ejected with 41 seconds remaining in the opening half after committing a flagrant two foul. In addition to Powell, Manhattan’s Rich Williams was removed as well. Delgado and Manhattan’s Zane Waterman received technical fouls for their part in the scuffle.

Even after struggling at various points of the half, Seton Hall held a 49-27 lead at halftime. The story of the half was The Hall dominating the rebounding margin (23-9 including ten offensive rebounds) and getting 17 points off of ten Manhattan (5-7) turnovers.

The Pirates were in firm control in the second half as Carrington began to get it going. The Seton Hall (11-2) lead stretched to as much 25 as the Pirates cruised in their final non-conference game on the schedule. 11 non-conference wins are Seton Hall’s most non-league victories since the 2012-2013 season.

“I think we’re excited about being 11-2,” Willard said after the game. “I think we’ve put ourselves in good position heading into the Big East.”

Seton Hall was led by Carrington, who finished with 15 points, and Angel Delgado who picked up his 59th career double-double scoring 15 points and grabbing 18 rebounds. Zane Waterman scored a game-high 18 points for Manhattan.

Freshman guard Jordan Walker, who returned to the team this week after reportedly telling coaches he wanted to transfer, played 16 minutes and scored two points.

Saturday was also the first game since senior forward Ismael Sanogo was suspended for a violation of team rules. After the game, Williard sounded as if Seton Hall is ready to continue playing without him in the rotation.

“I’m in no rush to bring him back,” Willard said. “You have to act in a certain way at this university. When you don’t, then it’s a big issue with me.”

Up Next For Seton Hall

The Pirates begin their Big East schedule with a game against Creighton at the Prudential Center on Thursday. Game time is 6:30 p.m. and can be seen on FS1.