SOUTH KINGSTOWN, R.I. (Interstat) — Saint Joseph’s used a stout defensive effort to edge Rhode Island 61-55 in an Atlantic 10 men’s basketball game Saturday at Ryan Center. The Hawks held the Rams to 27.4% shooting from the floor, including 6 of 33 from 3-point range, to secure the road victory before a crowd of 6,391.

Saint Joseph’s led 30-27 at halftime and maintained a narrow advantage throughout the second half. Dasear Haskins led the Hawks with 14 points, while Derek Simpson added 13 points and five assists. Justice Ajogbor contributed nine points and three blocks.

Keeyan Itejere scored 10 points for Rhode Island, and Tyler Cochran also had 13. The Rams outrebounded Saint Joseph’s 15-10 on the offensive glass but were hampered by four total assists and 12 turnovers. Saint Joseph’s improved to 19-10, while Rhode Island fell to 15-14.