COLUMBIA, Ky. - Lindsey Wilson's men's basketball team reached their seventh win at home this season against Cumberland. While the Phoenix dominated the momentum in the initial stages of the first half, the Blue Raiders' impressive performance in the second half hindered their progress, ending with a score of 91-78.
Lindsey Wilson (11-9, 2-3 MSC) shot 63.2% from the field, going 36-for-57 while Cumberland (5-14, 1-4 MSC) managed only 29-for-57 shooting at 38.7%. Both teams struggled to score from beyond the three-point line, managing only four successful shots each.
Halfway through the first half Cumberland had an eight point lead, until a good layup by Connor Robinson started a 11-4 run in favor of the Blue Raiders which showcased a change in momentum.
After the first half, the Blue Raiders led 37-34.
Across the game the point leaders for the Phoenix were Demarius Boyd with 37, and Triston Conger with 11. Keyshawn Robinson led in rebounds with eight, and co-led steals with Braxton Carothers with two. For Lindsey Wilson, Bryce Brown led the team with 22 points, and Connor Robinson tallied 17. Kenyata Carbon led in rebounds with seven. Rodney Lewis led assists with seven.
The Phoenix swiftly responded to Lindsey Wilson's score in the second half, as Cockrill made a jumper and Triston Conger added a layup in the initial plays. However, at the 16:28 mark, Lindsey Wilson capitalized on a couple of turnovers, triggering a 7-0 run that prompted a timeout for the Phoenix. Despite the break, the Blue Raiders continued their momentum, extending their lead by ten points when Isaac Weaver hit a three-pointer.
With Boyd on the bench, the Phoenix encountered offensive struggles, enduring a three-minute scoring drought. It wasn't until nine minutes remained in the game that Cumberland managed their first three-point shot of the half, intensifying their efforts with a five-point run to narrow the deficit.
In the closing stages, the Phoenix grappled with containing Lindsey Wilson's advantage defensively, ultimately succumbing to a 91-78 defeat.
Looking ahead, the Blue Raiders will regroup and prepare for their next challenge. back when they host the University of the Cumberlands Patriots on Thursday, February 1 at 7:30 p.m. CST at Biggers Sports Center. This matchup will be broadcast live on the Lindsey Wilson Sports Network.