BROOKLYN, NY – The University of Rhode Island Rams men's basketball team advanced to the Atlantic 10 Conference Tournament semifinals Thursday with an impressive 78-65 victory over the Fordham Rams at the Barclays Center, keeping their NCAA Tournament hopes alive and delighting the large contingent of Rhode Island fans who made the trip to Brooklyn.

Senior guard Jalen Carey led the way with 24 points and seven assists, while junior forward Marcus Brown contributed 18 points and 11 rebounds in a dominant performance. The Rams' defense held Fordham to just 38% shooting from the field, a testament to the defensive intensity that has defined URI's season under head coach Archie Miller.

"Our guys came ready to play," Miller said after the game. "We've been building toward this moment all season, and I thought our preparation really showed tonight. Jalen was outstanding, but this was a complete team effort."

The victory sets up a semifinal matchup against top-seeded Dayton, which has been one of the Atlantic 10's premier programs in recent years. The Rams will need to be at their best to advance, but the team's performance against Fordham suggests they are capable of competing with anyone in the conference.

URI entered the tournament with a 22-9 record, their best since the 2017-18 season when the Rams made their most recent NCAA Tournament appearance. The program has been steadily rebuilding under Miller, who took over in 2020 and has gradually elevated the team's talent level and competitive profile.

"This is what URI basketball can be when everything comes together," said longtime Rams fan and Cranston resident Michael Ferrante. "These kids are playing for each other and for the state. It's been a joy to watch."

The semifinal game is scheduled for Friday evening at 7 p.m. on CBS Sports Network.