Box Score Bluefield, WV- The Big Blues officially opened up their season today against the University of the Cumberlands. The Big Blues came out strong and led the Patriots in the first half but ultimately were over taken and defeated 78-68.
Bluefield State's defensive was a big story for today's game. As a team the Big Blues forced 19 turnovers and were able to score 26 points off those turnovers. The team also had 5 blocks, 3 of them coming from Josh Windham. Of the 19 turnovers, 8 of them came from steals and freshman Greg Prunell had some real sticky fingers and ended up with 4 steals. The strong defensive performance helped Bluefield State get at 10-point lead in the 1st half. But credit needs to be given to the Patriots outside shooters as they go thot and hit a couple 3's toward the end of the 1st half to come back and gain the lead. Cumberlands ended up 9 for 16 from behind the arc which was a major factor in the Patriots win.
On the offensive side the Big Blues were led by Senior James Day, who ended the game with 16 points. Three other Big Blues ended in double figures including Marcus Richardson, Greg Prunell and Jamal McCoy. Bluefield State shot 44% from the field and 50% from behind the arc. The team also got to the line 18 times, converting 14 free throws.
The Big Blues play local rival Bluefield College on Wednesday November 17th at 7:30 pm at Bluefield College. But the men are not home until November 28th against rival Concord. That game is scheduled to start at 6:00 pm.
