Box Score CLEVELAND, Ga. (December 1, 2021) - The Truett McConnell University men's basketball team hosted Appalachian Athletic Conference opponent, Bryan College, inside the Benjamin F. Brady Arena on Wednesday. The Bears lost by slim margins in overtime, 62-67, falling to a record of 4-4, 2-4 AAC, while the Lions rose to a record of 6-4, 4-3 AAC.
PLAY BY PLAYÂ
In the first period, the Lions were first to score, but the Bears returned with a three pointer by Brent Kelly to grab the lead. A shot in the paint from Enocka Franky and a free throw from EJ Smith developed an edge. The Lions put up a fight, recapturing the lead and creating a deficit. A dunk from CJ Brown followed by a three pointer from Smith closed the gap. A good free throw from Kelly left TMU down 22-37 at the half.
In the second period, the Bears fought back with a three pointer from Smith. TMU continued to cut at the deficit with a layup from Kelly, a free throw from KJ Riley and another three point shot from Smith. The Bears gained ground with four successful free throws, while a three pointer from Kelly brought TMU within five points and a shot in the paint from Riley brought them within two. A foul on Kelly led to two timely free throws to tie the score at 57-57 for the end of regulation.
In overtime, both teams were strong until the Lions managed to break away. A jumper in the paint from Riley led TMU, followed by a layup from Kelly which was ultimately not enough as the Bears fell 62-67.
LEADERS
Kelly recorded a double-double on the evening with 12 rebounds and 19 points, while going 5-6 from behind the free throw line. Riley followed with seven rebounds and 17 points, collecting six shots from within the paint. Smith had 12 points, going 3-4 at the free throw line with one steal. Bryant compiled seven points, going 4-6 from behind the free throw line and a shot in the paint. Brown had five points, with two shots in the paint, along with five rebounds.
UP NEXT
The Bears remain inside the Benjamin F. Brady Arena to face AAC opponent, Point University, on Saturday, Dec. 4th. Tipoff is set for 4:00 p.m.
