November 29, 2007

 

     Dayton, TN—After another week off, the Bryan College Men’s Basketball team was eager to kick off conference play for the 2007-2008 season on Friday night. Coming into Summers Gymnasium to challenge the Lions was a well coached UVA-Wise team who was playing extremely well early on this year.

     Bryan Coach Don Rekoske was confident in his team’s ability, but knew that it would take a strong defensive effort to beat the Cavaliers, who are one of the best shooting teams in the Appalachian Athletic Conference.  Defense had been the Lions  ‘calling card’ so far this season, having held 5 of their 6 opponents to under 40% shooting from the floor, and this night would be no different. The Lions built a solid first half lead on the shoulders of Cody Christopher, Lamarr Shorts and Charlie Lytle, while holding the visiting Cavs to just 35% shooting and staking a 31 27 halftime lead.

     The second half was all Bryan as well, as Christopher opened the frame with a couple quick buckets, and Scott Newton provided a lift off the bench. Mike Lytle contributed 10 points and 7 assists to go along with 4 rebounds. The Lions shot 52 percent from the floor in the second half, holding off a late UVA-Wise run and finishing the ballgame with a 9 point victory. Final Score: Bryan 74, UVA-Wise 65.

     Charlie Lytle led the Lions with 16 points and 7 rebounds, while Cody Christopher added 12 points and 4 boards. Freshman Scott Newton continued to have a solid year, with 11 points and 4 rebounds in just 17 minutes and Lamarr Shorts had 8 points and 3 assists.