ELIZABETHTON, Tenn. (January 31, 2024) – On Wednesday, the Truett McConnell University men's basketball team traveled to compete in an Appalachian Athletic Conference match-up against Milligan University, where the Bears fell behind against the Buffaloes, 96-71. TMU falls to an overall record of 9-12, 7-10 AAC, while MU rises to a record of 9-10, 9-8 AAC.
 
PLAY-BY-PLAY
In the first half, MU was first to score with Cory Seitz responding with a good layup in the paint. The game remained evenly matched, when a quick nine-point run by the opposing team created a marginal deficit. TMU continued to work offensively, with a layup by EJ Smith followed by a layup by Jadon Yeh, working to give the Bears a fighting chance. A late burst of energy from the Buffaloes in the first half, ultimately proved MU to be a tough competitor, forcing a 20-point gap between the two teams as they entered the half with a score of, 32-52. 
 
The second half saw Akil Covington first to score, with a good three-pointer assisted by Smith. Good offense by the Buffaloes proved to be a threat to the Bears as the opposing team continued to increase the score. TMU did not lose heart as a three-pointer by KJ Riley gave TMU hope at forcing a change. Final free throws by Raul Arias-Ortega and Smith ultimately proved to be a valiant effort, but was ultimately not enough to secure a win, falling to the Buffaloes 96-71.
 
LEADERS
Smith led the way for the Bears with 22 points, six rebounds and four assists, while going 8-8 at the free throw line. Riley followed with 17 points and six rebounds, while Covington, Seitz and CJ Brown all recorded six points apiece. Arias-Ortega contributed five points, while Yeh had four points and seven rebounds.
 
UP NEXT 
TMU will be back in action at home on Saturday, February 3, as they host Tennessee Wesleyan University inside the Benjamin F. Brady Arena. Tip-off set for 4:00 p.m.