Jeff Xavier poured in a game high 22 points and collected 5 caroms in leading the Manhattan Jaspers to an 80-77 win over Fairleigh Dickinson Knights in the opening round of the NIT from Draddy Gym.

Arturo Dubois notched a double-double with 17 points and 11 rebounds for the Jaspers(19-10),who will take Maryland in the first round of the NIT on Saturday. Jason Wingate added 15 points and 6 assists in the win, while Devon Austin had 13 points and 5 rebounds.

Gordon Klaiber led the way for FDU (20-12) with 21 points and 8 rebounds.Chad Timberlake contributed 16 pts and 6 assists,while Andre Harris chipped in with 13 points in the losing cause.

Both teams shoot well in the first half and entered the break knotted at 45-45. Manhattan made 53.1% of its field goal attemps in frame, while FDU hit on 50% of its shot from the floor.

In the second half, Wingate gave the Jaspers a 78-77 lead with a jumper in the final minute and then made two free throws to ensure the three-point victory. FDU had two shot to tie the score in the final seconds, but failed to convert either attempt.

With the win Manhattan improved to 7-18 all time in the NIT.