Rivier's Nikolas Pignone hit some big shots down the stretch but it wasn't enough in a tough 65-63 GNAC tourney loss at Norwich Tuesday night. (File photo courtesy of Rivier University)

NORTHFIELD, Vt. — The Rivier men’s basketball team fell 65-63 Tuesday night in the first round of the GNAC Tournament to Norwich University, ending arguably the best season the Raiders (10-15) have had in 10 years.

This first round playoff game was neck and neck the whole way, with seven lead changes and three ties. For the first time, Norwich (15-11) led at the half in part to Donovan Lewis and his 11 points. Kyle Booth chipped in nine points and seven rebounds for the Cadets.

Miles Gillette (Washington, D.C) had another big game for the Raiders with 28 points — 18 in the first half — to go with 16 rebounds, and two blocks.

But Norwich got production from six players in the second half, with 20 points of their 32 coming from Jalen Olivero and Lewis. Each had 10 points in the second half, along with Lewis pulling down another six rebounds.

Rivier’s Nikolas Pignone had 12 of his 15 points in the second half. With his fourth three-pointer in the half, Pignone made it a one-point game with just 1:20 remaining. However, Olivero would come down the court to push the lead back to three with a made layup.

Lewis had 21 points and nine rebounds for Norwich, while Rivier’s Pignone finished with 15 points going 5-of-8 from 3-point land and 5-of-9 from the floor.