A three-point win and a two-point loss were Shepherd’s fates when the mens basketball team opened the season last weekend at the Butcher Center.

With Naim Muhammad doling out 11 assists and scoring nine points, the Rams edged East Stroudsburg, 72-69, after trailing, 43-35, at the half. Winston Burgess had 14 rebounds and 10 points, Steffen Davis added 15 points, A.J. Carr scored 14 points and secured eight rebounds and reserve forward Gavin McTavish managed another 13 points.

The Rams committed only 10 turnovers, but made only 44.8 percent of their field goal tries and 60.9 percent of their foul shots.

Even in making 11-of-14 second-half free throws, Shepherd finished with a 14-for-23 showing at the foul line.

A 57-55 loss to Slippery Rock could be at least partially attributed to making only 14-of-47 (29.8 percent) of its field goal attempts.

The Rams converted 22-of-32 (68.8 percent) of their many free throws.

Slippery Rock had a 39-31 rebounding advantage.

Shepherd committed just six turnovers in its first loss.

Burgess was in foul trouble and played only 15 minutes. Carr did play 38 minutes and finished with four fouls. Davis also finished with four fouls but did play 34 minutes.

Khyree Wooten had 15 points for The Rock and Chase George had 12 rebounds.

Muhammad managed to score 17 points and claimed six rebounds, and Davis scored 17 points.

Shepherd is at home tomorrow when conference rival Glenville arrives at the Butcher Center for a men’s/women’s doubleheader.