WILLIAMSTOWN, Mass. - The Western New England College men's basketball team received a game high 23 points from sophomore guard Matt Maynard (Paterson, NJ), but Bates College prevailed 66-59 in the season opener for both teams in an opening round game of the Williams Invitational Friday night (Nov. 17).

Maynard was sharp in his season debut making 8-of-12 shots from the field and all five free throws. He also puleld down four rebounds along with two steals and an assist.

WNEC trailed 28-25 at half-time, but couldn't quite catch the Bobcats who had three players in double figures led by freshman guard Chris Wilson with 18 points. Senior forward Rob Stockwell posted a double-double with 12 points and 11 rebounds.

Junior forward Jim Bayne (Bristol, CT) was the only other player scoring in double figures for the Golden Bears. He had 11 points in his first outing since the end of the 2004-05 campaign.

Western New England College will meet host Williams College at 3:00 p.m. Saturday (Nov. 18) in the second day of the Classic format tournament.