Box Score
The Bruins traveled to North Carolina on Friday night for a matchup with the Piedmont International University Bruins. The two teams split the season series during the 2012 season. The two teams also played earlier in the season in Greenville, with BJU coming away with an 81-61 win at home. The crowd would be in full voice as the "battle of the Bruins" part two was about to begin.
The two teams went back and forth in the opening minutes trading baskets with neither able to gain a strong advantage. After a dunk by Xavier Dulin, Piedmont took a 13-11 lead. The crowd was riding the high of the highlight dunk, when the Bruins came roaring back behind the impressive play of Larry Taylor who shredded the Piedmont defense with points. Before long, the Bruins had built a comfortable 28-17 lead and rode that momentum into the half where they extended their lead to 37-25.
"We knew this was going to be a tough game and a fun environment," Coach Ring said. "I thought our defensive intensity matched their play and we were able to make key stops."
In the second half, Piedmont came charging back behind back to back three's from Carl Tyson. The Bruins regrouped and were able to establish control of the tempo again. Piedmont didn't have an answer for Larry Taylor as the Bruins guard was able to capitalize on offensive possessions to build the Bruins lead. Piedmont was able to cut the lead back down to six before the Bruins ran away with the 75-59 win.
"I was really proud of our effort tonight," Coach Ring said. "Anytime your defense gives up that few points at an opponent's home court you are happy about it. We're just going to keep working on improving our defense and hopefully finish out the season strong on Tuesday."
Larry Taylor led all scorers in the game with 32 points. Kirtis Yurchak and Zach Mercado each chipped in 10. With the win, the Bruins climb above .500 for the first time since the beginning of the season. The team will play their final game of the regular season on Tuesday night as they welcome Hiwassee College. The Bruins will honor their seniors in this game, and the team hopes to end the season with a win at home.
