Bristol, Tenn. – The King University men's basketball team delivered one of its most complete performances of the season on Tuesday night, pulling away in the second half to earn a 77–62 victory over Belmont Abbey inside the Student Center Complex. The Tornado improved to 7–12 overall and 5–6 in Conference Carolinas play, while the Crusaders dropped to 5–14 (3–10 Conference Carolinas).
Game Flow
King opened the night with strong ball movement and balanced scoring, building a 34–29 halftime lead behind efficient shooting from the backcourt. The Tornado defense forced Belmont Abbey into tough looks from the perimeter, holding the Crusaders to just 33 percent shooting in the opening 20 minutes.
The second half belonged entirely to King.
The Tornado came out of the locker room with renewed energy, pushing the pace and attacking the paint.
Jordan Akal sparked the surge with downhill drives and timely threes, while
Lenier Pocknett controlled the interior on both ends. King outscored Belmont Abbey 43–33 in the final period, steadily widening the margin as the Crusaders struggled to keep up with the Tornado's tempo.
A late defensive stand — highlighted by steals from Pocknett and
Luis Acevedo — sealed the win as King closed the game on a decisive run, energizing the home crowd of 121.
King Highlights
- Jordan Akal led all scorers with 21 points, adding 5 rebounds and 4 assists while shooting 9-of-12 from the line.
- Lenier Pocknett delivered a powerful all-around performance with 16 points, 7 rebounds, and 3 steals.
- Luis Acevedo added 12 points, 4 rebounds, and 3 assists, knocking down two threes.
- Jeremias Berchal contributed 11 points and 5 rebounds, providing steady scoring throughout.
- Mica Merriman and Jalen Royster combined for 9 points off the bench, helping King win the bench battle 32–28.
- King shot 41.8 percent from the field and 36.4 percent from three, including 4-of-10 from deep in the second half.
Key Stats
| Category |
King |
Belmont Abbey |
| Rebounds |
41 |
39 |
| Points in the Paint |
34 |
30 |
| Points off Turnovers |
16 |
9 |
| Second-Chance Points |
7 |
13 |
| Fast Break Points |
17 |
16 |
| Bench Points |
32 |
28 |
| Three-Pointers |
8 |
6 |
King's defensive pressure and transition scoring proved decisive, while the Tornado's ability to close possessions on the glass helped maintain control throughout the second half.
Conclusion
The Tornado showcased poise, depth, and physicality in a wire-to-wire victory, never trailing and responding to every Belmont Abbey push with timely scoring. Akal's leadership, Pocknett's interior presence, and Acevedo's two-way play fueled a strong team effort that keeps King climbing in the Conference Carolinas standings.
Next Game
King hits the road on
Thursday, January 29, traveling to face Shorter at 7:30 p.m.
