Jayson Barnhart set a new single-game scoring record for the Bruins on Tuesday night as he scored 40 points. Unfortunately, it wasn't enough as the BJU Bruins fell to the Carolina Christian Centurions 76-75 in a close game at the Davis Field House. With the loss, the Bruins fall to 6-16 on the season.
It was a back and forth first half of play as both teams kept trading baskets. The BJU defense was great as they held the Centurions to 1-11 on three pointers, but Carolina Christian was able to keep it close as they forced seven Bruin turnovers. Going into halftime the Centurions held a 39-33 advantage.
"We did a great job communicating on defense," said Jamal Walton. "We played with a lot of heart and hustled on every play."
In the second half, the Bruins were able to claw their way back into the game. The stellar defense continued and they were able to limit their turnovers after committing seven in the first half, finishing the game with eleven.
"After struggling in the first half, we did a great job of slowing down and limiting our turnovers," said Coach Uwarow. "That allowed us to cut into the deficit."
With under a minute to play, the game was tied at 75-75. Jayson Barnhart drove into the lane and missed a short jumper. Blake Coleman was there for the rebound and was fouled on his shot attempt. Coleman made the first, but missed the second which led to a Centurion timeout.
On the following possession, Keonte Edwards drove to the basket and was fouled with five seconds left, sending him to the free throw line. Edwards came through in the clutch for Carolina Christian as he drained both free throws, giving the Centurions a 76-75 lead in the closing seconds.
Coach Uwarow called a timeout to set up a last second play as the Bruins had to go the full length of the court in under five seconds. Jon Allen drove down the lane trying to connect with Quiyante Burroughs on a pass underneath the basket, but the two were unable to connect as the ball went out of bounds leading to a 76-75 Carolina Christian victory.
"Carolina Christian is a talented team," said Coach Uwarow. "They had a big size advantage and they capitalized on that tonight, out-rebounding us 39-27."
Jayson Barnhart finished the game with a career high of 40 points. Quiyante Burroughs scored 9 and Jon Allen totaled 7 points and 10 assists. Next up, the Bruins will travel to take on rival Pensacola Christian College on Saturday. Tip-off is set for 3:00 p.m.
