University of Massachusets Athletics
University of Massachusetts
Iona
UMass Rallies To Beat Iona In Season Opener, 85-77
November 20, 1999 | Men's Basketball
Nov. 20, 1999
NEW ROCHELLE, N.Y. (AP) - Monty Mack scored 21 points to lead Massachusetts past Iona 85-77 Saturday night in the season-opener for both teams.
Chris Kirkland, who scored four points during an 8-0 run midway through the second half, added 15 points and Kitwana Rhymer had 12 for the Minutemen, who won their first non-tournament season opener on the road since 1977.
Tariq Kirksay led Iona with 20 points.
The Gaels took a 47-38 lead early in the second half on baskets by Phil Grant, who had 14 points, and Dyree Wilson, who had 13.
A 3-point goal by Jonathan DePina capped a 9-0 run to knot the game at 47-47.
Kirkland scored four of eight UMass points as the Minutemen snapped a 56-56 tie.
Shannon Crooks and Jonathan DePina finished with 11 points each for UMass.
