Bergen Men’s Basketball Defeats Atlantic Cape, 80-66
Paramus, NJ – The Bergen Community College men's basketball team earned an important conference victory on Thursday evening, defeating Atlantic Cape Community College, 80-66, at the Pit. With the win, the Bulldogs improve to 15-12 overall and 10-7 in conference play.
Bergen set the tone early, building a 42-28 lead at halftime behind balanced scoring and defensive pressure. The Bulldogs maintained their momentum in the second half, matching Atlantic Cape point-for-point over the final 20 minutes to secure the 14-point victory.
Sophomore forward Evan Meberg led the way with 16 points, connecting on three shots from beyond the arc while adding a team-high nine rebounds. Jakai Irby and Logan Garcia each contributed 11 points, with Garcia shooting an efficient 4-of-9 from the field. Off the bench, Bergen received a major boost from Jarris Bertram, who scored 11 points on 3-of-6 shooting, including two three-pointers, while adding four rebounds and two assists.
The Bulldogs' depth proved to be a difference-maker, outscoring Atlantic Cape 39-8 in bench points. Jaheim Best added nine points and six steals in a strong all-around effort, while Bergen's defense forced 18 turnovers and converted them into 24 points.
Bergen controlled the glass, outrebounding Atlantic Cape 42-37, and capitalized at the free throw line, shooting an impressive 83.3 percent (20-of-24). The Bulldogs also held a 36-30 advantage in points in the paint and doubled their opponent in second-chance points, 14-7.
After taking a 14-point lead into halftime, Bergen maintained composure down the stretch to close out the conference win.
