PHILADELPHIA, Pennsylvania - The American International College men's basketball team lost a 77-66 matchup with Jefferson University to open the 2025-26 season on Friday, November 14.

AIC is 0-1 on the year.

The Yellow Jackets opened the scoring with a triple by Chase Nelson, and after the hosts answered with two buckets, Tony Felder knocked a three down. That was the first of a trio of long-distance shots by the newcomer as AIC built a 14-8 advantage just 4:13 in, and Aleksy Walczak added another from distance on AIC's next possession following a Jefferson timeout.

However, the Yellow Jackets spent the next 6:40 without a made field goal as the Rams flipped the score to a six-point lead in their favor before Chase Nelson stopped the stretch with a make from deep. Shortly after, Coleman Hopson also scored a three, tying the game 26-26 with 5:52 left in the half.

Unfortunately for the Yellow Jackets, another lull followed; the Rams scored the next nine points and maintained their lead from there to halftime, going into the break up 41-33.

AIC was able to close the gap in the second half, and with 8:49 to play Felder finished a fast break with a layup after swiping the ball away. Once more, the Rams answered with a big run, restoring a 10-point lead and holding on down the stretch for the win.

Nelson led AIC with 19 points on 7-of-14 shooting including five from deep. Aguibou Balde had a strong night with 15 points, nine boards, and four assists. 

AIC returns to action on Saturday, November 15 with another tilt in the City of Brotherly Love as the Yellow Jackets face Holy Family University.