KINGSPORT, Tenn. (February 27, 2025) - The Truett McConnell University men's basketball team concluded their 2024-25 season on Thursday, where the No. 9 seed Bears fell to the Appalachian Athletic Conference No. 1 seed University of Pikeville with a final score of 72-58. TMU finishes the season with an overall record of 13-15, 9-10 AAC. 

PLAY-BY-PLAY
The first half began with good shots by UPike. An early foul by the opposing team sent Myles McCrary to the line, recording the Bears first points of the day with back-to-back free throws. Both teams battled early with layups by Raul Arias-Ortega and Omari Joseph leading the way. The Bears continued to trail by one possession as both teams fought to break off with the lead. Good three-pointers by McCrary and Cooper Rubio, paired with three consecutive layups by Arias-Ortega, proved TMU to be a tough competitor against the No. 1 seed. A final layup by McCrary put first half regulation away as the Bears trailed by two, 34-32. 

In the second half, good jump shots by McCrary and Joseph followed by a three-pointer from Jadon Yeh, proved capable of tying the score. A clutch three-pointer by Rubio ultimately pushed the Bears ahead of UPike as TMU worked together to retain control. A change in momentum saw the opposing team score 17 consecutive points, leaving the Bears behind. TMU gave it their all as a  final three-pointer by Rubio and a layup by Arias-Ortega attempted to change the result of the game, but ultimately fell short to a final score of 72-58.

LEADERS
McCrary led the way for the Bears recording 21 points and going 8-9 on field goals. Rubio followed with 12 points, while Arias-Ortega tallied 11 points and three assists. Joseph was featured recording 12 rebounds respectfully. 

Keep up with all the Bears action here on tmbears.com or follow us on Facebook (@TMUBears), Instagram (@TMUBears) and X (@TMUBears).