Thompson scores 31 points as Rider beats Fairfield 88-80 for third win in a row

Rider defeats Fairfield 88-80

BRIDGEPORT, Conn. — Ryan Thompson scored 31 points and Rider defeated Fairfield 88-80 on Saturday.

Thompson, who made 15 of 16 free throw attempts, also grabbed 11 rebounds. Justin Robinson added 15 points and Novar Gadson had 14 for the Broncs (13-11, 6-6 Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference), who have won three games in a row.

Leading 62-58, the Broncs went on a 16-4 run to grab their biggest lead of the game at 78-62 after a free throw by Gadson with 5:50 remaining. Fairfield cut the lead to 78-74, but Rider made 10 of 12 free throw attempts in the final 2:18 to seal the win. Thompson and Gadson each made four free throws down the stretch.

Derek Needham had 20 points and 10 assists to lead the Stags (15-7, 8-4). Anthony Johnson also had a double-double with 12 points and 10 rebounds, and Yorel Hawkins added 14 points for the Stags.