Bristol, Tenn.- The King University men's basketball team continued its February momentum with a strong 71–55 victory over Erskine College on Thursday evening at the Student Center Complex. The Tornado improved to 10–13 overall and 8–7 in Conference Carolinas play, while the Flying Fleet dropped to 0–20 (0–15 CC). A crowd of 176 fans watched King control the game from start to finish.
Game Flow
King came out firing, building a 41–22 halftime lead behind efficient shooting and disciplined defense. The Tornado knocked down seven first-half threes and shot over 60 percent from the field, setting the tone early.
Erskine found more rhythm in the second half, scoring 33 points behind improved perimeter shooting, but King's early cushion held firm. The Tornado maintained a double-digit lead throughout the final 20 minutes, using balanced scoring and strong bench production to secure the 16-point home win.
King Highlights
- Jalen Royster led the way with 12 points, all from beyond the arc, while adding seven rebounds and steady perimeter defense.
- Jeremias Berchal delivered 10 points on 4-of-6 shooting and dished out four assists.
- Djae Eason Jr. added eight points and five rebounds, knocking down two threes.
- Lenier Pocknett contributed seven points, six rebounds, and three assists while anchoring the interior.
- Mica Merriman provided a major spark off the bench with 12 points, including three three-pointers.
- Eli Elston added 10 points in 19 minutes, giving King valuable scoring depth.
- King's bench combined for 32 points, a major factor in the win.
As a team, King shot an impressive
55.6 percent from the field and
47.8 percent from three (11-of-23). The Tornado also turned defense into offense, scoring
18 points off turnovers and pushing the pace for
20 fast-break points.
Erskine Effort
Erskine was led by
Ruben Salazar, who posted a double-double with 21 points and 11 rebounds while playing all 40 minutes.
Max Peeler added 16 points and four threes, and
KD Gordon chipped in 11 points.
Despite shooting 35.8 percent from the field, the Flying Fleet improved in the second half and scored 33 points after the break. However, their early offensive struggles and King's hot shooting proved too much to overcome.
Key Stats
| Category |
King |
Erskine |
| Field Goal % |
55.6% |
35.8% |
| Three-Point % |
47.8% |
28.6% |
| Rebounds |
31 |
29 |
| Bench Points |
32 |
7 |
| Fast-Break Points |
20 |
3 |
| Points off Turnovers |
18 |
15 |
| Points in the Paint |
28 |
22 |
Conclusion
King's offensive efficiency and depth were the difference, with 11 made threes and a 32-point bench effort powering the Tornado to their eighth conference win. Royster, Merriman, and Elston led a balanced attack, while King's defense set the tone early and never let Erskine threaten the lead.
Next Game
King returns to the court on
Saturday, February 14, hosting
Francis Marion University at
4:00 p.m. ET at the Student Center Complex.
