Banner Elk, N.C. – The King University men's basketball team battled hard but came up short Saturday afternoon, falling 84–76 to Lees-McRae at Williams Gymnasium. The Tornado dropped to 1–7 overall (0–2 Conference Carolinas), while the Bobcats improved to 4–4 (1–2 Conference Carolinas).
Game Flow
Lees-McRae jumped out to a 40–34 halftime lead behind efficient shooting and strong play in the paint. King kept the contest close throughout, cutting the margin to single digits several times in the second half. However, the Bobcats maintained their offensive rhythm, outscoring the Tornado 44–42 after the break to secure the eight-point victory.
King Highlights
- Xavier Betancourt led all Tornado scorers with 24 points, shooting 9-of-18 from the field and adding eight rebounds, four steals, and three assists.
- Jordan Akal contributed 16 points, including three three-pointers, while dishing out four assists.
- Jeremias Berchal scored 12 points and grabbed four rebounds, while Mica Merriman added 10 points and seven rebounds.
- Djae Eason Jr. chipped in eight points in limited minutes, hitting two three-pointers.
- Keyton Keene provided a strong presence on the boards with nine rebounds and four points.
- As a team, King shot 40.3 percent from the field (27-of-67), 35.5 percent from three (11-of-31), and 84.6 percent from the free-throw line (11-of-13).
- The Tornado scored 28 points in the paint and added 15 fast-break points.
Key Stats
- Rebounds: Lees-McRae 39, King 38
- Second-Chance Points: King 12, Lees-McRae 4
- Points in the Paint: Lees-McRae 48, King 28
- Fast Break Points: Lees-McRae 19, King 15
- Bench Points: Lees-McRae 45, King 6
Conclusion
Despite Betancourt's standout performance and balanced scoring from Akal, Berchal, and Merriman, King could not overcome Lees-McRae's efficiency in the paint and depth off the bench.
Next Game
King will return home on Tuesday, December 16, hosting Converse University at the Student Center Complex in Bristol, Tenn. Tip-off is scheduled for 2:00 p.m. ET.
