KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (February 15, 2024) - On Wednesday, the Truett McConnell University men's basketball team traveled to compete in an Appalachian Athletic Conference match-up against Johnson University, where the Bears fell to the Royals, 76-62. TMU falls to a record of 10-15, 8-13 AAC, while JU rises to a record of 14-10, 13-8 AAC.

PLAY-BY-PLAY

In the first half, the Royals were first to score, taking an early lead over the Bears. Layups by Raul Arias-Ortega and EJ Smith, finally found the Bears on the board as TMU worked to decrease JUs lead. A layup by Smith followed by four good free throws from KJ Riley, attempted to decrease the gap as the Bears trailed by 20 at the half, 19-39.

The second half saw Cainan Wright first to make a move with a good three-pointer. TMU successfully began decreasing the wide margin as back-to-back free throws and a good three-pointer by CJ Brown, put the Bears back in the game. The Bears continued to battle the Royals as two three-pointers and a layup by Smith, put TMU within range. A last chance effort by the Bears to recover from JU's strong first half, attempted to change the result of the game, but was ultimately not enough, falling 62-76. 

LEADERS

Smith led the way with 19 points and five rebounds. Riley followed, recording a double-double, featuring 13 points and 11 rebounds, while going 9-10 at the free throw line. Wright was featured contributing nine points, while Brown tallied eight points. 

UP NEXT

The Bears will be back in action at home on Saturday, February 17, as they take on the University of Pikeville in an AAC match-up. Tip off set for 4:00 p.m.