Carolina University’s men’s basketball team lost a close game to Montreat College in overtime on Tuesday at Williams Gymnasium, with a final score of 82–81. The Bruins now hold a 2–7 record for the season.
Montreat led early, shooting 59 percent in the first half and going into halftime with a 48–26 advantage. Carolina University responded strongly after the break, scoring 45 points in the second half while limiting Montreat to just 23 points. The Bruins shot 62 percent from the field during this period and tied the game at 71–71, sending it into overtime.
In overtime, both teams exchanged key baskets. With two seconds left, Mike Wade made two free throws to put Carolina ahead by one point. However, Montreat secured victory with late free throws of their own.
Shawn Woodson was Carolina’s top scorer with 19 points. Cooper Smith and Tristan Kuska each contributed 16 points, and DJ Evans added 15 points along with six assists. The Bruins outscored Montreat in the paint and forced their opponents into committing 25 turnovers.
After the game, Head Coach Jacob Heck said: “We didn’t come out with the urgency we needed, and it showed early. But what I’m proud of is how our guys responded. They could have folded, but instead they fought possession by possession, defended, made plays, and gave themselves a chance to win in overtime. That kind of grit is something we can build on moving forward.”
