CLEVELAND, Ga. (January 9, 2025) - On Thursday, the Truett McConnell University men's basketball team hosted Reinhardt University for an Appalachian Athletic Conference match-up, where the Bears handled business recording a 98-95 victory over the Eagles. TMU rises to an overall record of 6-8, 3-5 AAC.

PLAY-BY-PLAY
The Bears fell behind in the first half as an early lead by the Eagles pushed RU ahead. Multiple made shots by Jadon Yeh allowed TMU to decrease the gap followed by a good three point shot by RJ Bryant. The Bears continued to press forward when a layup by Preston Tuggle gave TMU  the lead. Both teams continued to battle when a steal into a good fast break layup by EJ Smith gave the Bears momentum. Two made free throws by Yeh ultimately sent the Bears into halftime with the lead, 43-42. TMU retained the lead for the majority of the second half creating a nine point gap on the board. The Eagles gave it their all, attempting to disrupt the Bears, but two final made free throws by Smith put the game away, 98-95. 

LEADERS
Smith led the way with 25 points, eight rebounds, five steals and two assists. Yeh followed with 17 points and nine assists, while Myles McCrary had 17 points and nine rebounds. Bryant was featured recording 15 points, while Tuggle had 13 points and three blocks.

UP NEXT
The Bears will host AAC opponent, St. Andrews University inside the Benjamin F. Brady Arena on Wednesday, January 15. Tip off set for 7:30 p.m.