By Daniel Branley
Staff Writer
The Bryan College men’s basketball team defeated Truett-McConnell College (Cleveland, Ga.) 70-69 in a nail-biter Saturday evening.
It was an extremely tight match, and the lead changed hands 14 times. The Lions took a four-point lead into halftime with the score standing at 39-35.
The second half continued much like the first with both teams struggling to open a significant lead over their opponent. The Lions scored with a minute and a half remaining in the game to take a three-point lead. The Bears then scored a quick five points to open up a two-point lead on the Lions with only 10.3 seconds remaining. With just seconds left the Lions charged down the court and passed the ball to sophomore Brandon Cole who charged the basket and managed to make a layup to tie the match. After being fouled on the layup, Cole went to the line and made his free throw to clinch the game.
The Lions managed to outshoot the Bears making 41.5% from the floor, with the bears only managing 40.9%.
Brandon Cole again led the Lions with another excellent display. He recorded 33 points and 10 rebounds. Sophomore Robert Troino ended the game with 23 points including 6 three pointers.
The Lions paid tribute to their graduating seniors Terrell Maryland, Logan Sharp and Derrick Walker who were honoured for their service to the program before the game.
The Lions will now be looking to put in a good performance at the first round of the AAC tournament. The Lions are still waiting to find out who their opponent will be in their first match.
The Bryan college women’s basketball team was also in action against Truett-Mconnel on Saturday. The Lions played exceptionally well defensively and allowed their opponents to score only 10 points in the entire first half. Bryan continued to dominate the match and managed to open a commanding lead that they managed to hold until the end of the match. The won the game 45-30 and now hold the record of 19-10 overall and 14-16 in the AAC.
The Lady Lions paid tribute to their graduating seniors Rachel Calfee and Jenna Ray who were honoured after the game.