January 26, 2008

 

                Wise, VA— Coming off one of their worst losses of the year at home against King College on Saturday, and with their record sitting at 8-12(2-7 in the AAC), the Bryan Lions headed to Wise, VA on Saturday afternoon looking to avenge an early season loss. The Lions were reeling after losing 4 out of their last 5 games, despite playing well enough to win at least 3 more games. The team needed a win to get back on track and establish some momentum heading into a big conference matchup Wednesday at Bluefield College.

                Prior to the game, the Lions spent the week returning to fundamentals and looking to “fix” what has plagued them in their losses this season. Lions’ Head Coach Don Rekoske emphasizes defense, and when the Lions play their aggressive style, holding opponents to 40% shooting or less, they are a force to be reckoned with. Lately however, the Lions have given up easy buckets and not defended particularly well.  UVA-Wise is a very good shooting team, and the Lions had their hands full all night, trying to lock up Jared Soles, the Cav’s leading scorer.

                The two teams traded buckets in a tight first half, with the Cavaliers taking a 1 point lead into the break, 31-30. Bryan turned it on in the second half, outscoring UVA-Wise 31-28 in the second frame on the strength of a 35-29 rebounding margin and 43% shooting from beyond the arc. Lions’ sharpshooter Kyle Terry had 9 points, all coming from three point range. Terry continues to rank among the top 3-point shooters in the NAIA, averaging around 3 treys per game.

                Bryan got its biggest performance from Lamarr Shorts who poured in a game-high 21 points on 7-of-13 shooting from the floor. Shorts also grabbed 6 boards and had 3 steals to key the victory for the Lions. Demond Craig also had a big night for the Lions, contributing 12 points, 4 rebounds and 2 assists. Bryan will hope to use the win to get on a roll as they head to Bluefield, VA on Tuesday to take on the Rams. Tip-Off is set for 7:30 PM.