The Red Hawks shot 48.0% (12-for-25) in the first half, including 55.6% (5-for-9) from three-point range, to open a 38-28 lead at halftime. After Clarkson pulled to within eight points (38-30) early in the second half, Rensselaer made a 26-8 run to take a commanding lead (64-38) with 5:46 remaining.
Schneider, RPI’s top scorer (17.6 points per game) and rebounder (10.7 per game), made 7-of-10 shot from the floor and all four of his shots from the free throw line to lead the way. He also collected a game-high eight rebounds (3 offensive), an assist and two steals in 19 minutes.
Junior forward Michael Visker (Essex Junction, VT/Essex) had 12 points for the Red Hawks, all on three point baskets, while senior forward Matt Zepernick (Northport, NY/Northport) scored ten points.
Clarkson was led by senior Russ Vitallo’s (Dracut, MA/Dracut) 11 points while guard EJ Harrison (Troy, NY/LaSalle Institute) had eight points and six rebounds, including one offensive.
Rensselaer returns to action on Saturday afternoon when it hosts St. Lawrence University in a league game at 4pm. Prior to the contest, the Red Hawks will honor two of its NCAA Tournament teams, 1990-91 and 1995-96. Clarkson plays at league foe Vassar College on Saturday at 4pm.