Box Score
Justin Matthews was the story of the night as the senior shot 60% from beyond the arc and finished with 20 points to help the Bruins defeat Piedmont International University 78-56 to capture their 3rd straight win. The team improves to 7-9 on the season.
"We really trusted each other tonight," Matthews said after the win. "My teammates had my back and even when I missed some in the first half and told me to keep shooting. Knowing they have my back gives me more confidence."
Earlier in the season, the Bruins had come up short against PIU in a 70-55 loss in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. The Bruins came into the game after back to back region wins in Florida over the weekend.
As the game began, Piedmont came out on a 7-0 run as they put the Bruins back on their heels. The Bruins responded as Luc Muhirwa scored a three-point play and Dustin Killough and Justin Matthews each hit a three to put the team up 9-7. Matthews continued his hot streak as he knocked down another three as the Bruins increased their lead. Still, PIU refused to back down and stayed within striking distance as the first half wore on.
With just over six minutes to play in the half, Matthews hit his third three of to put the Bruins up 26-19. The team also got strong play from Quez Fisher as he finished with 8 points and 13 rebounds in the game. Piedmont closed the gap to end the first half but the Bruins still led 34-31 at the break.
In the second half, Jayson Barnhart scored two jumpers in the lane and Matthews again swished a three point bomb to help the Bruins lead 41-33. Piedmont came back but the Bruins were able to make several key stops to keep the lead. Dustin Killough hit a three with just over four minutes to play as part of a 13-4 run to help the Bruins take a double digit lead. As the final buzzer sounded, the Bruins had captured their third straight win 78-56.
"These guys have their sights set pretty high this year," Bruins Assistant Coach Tony Miller said. "They are staying focused and each of these games are helping us prepare ultimately for the region and national tournaments."
Matthews was one of four players in double figures as he finished with 20 points. Dustin Killough and Jayson Barnhart each finished with 14 points while Nate Ellenwood scored 11. The Bruins shot 49% from the field including 50% from beyond the arc. Next up, the Bruins will be on the road Thursday night as they battle Erskine College in Due West, South Carolina.
