Charlotte, NC – Bluefield State University men's basketball fell to Johnson C. Smith in a non-conference matchup, 84-75. The Big Blue dropped to 4-3 on the year, with the Golden Bulls improving to 4-2 (1-0 CIAA).
The Golden Bulls built a seven-point lead two minutes into play, but at the 14:27 mark, a trip to the line for Larry Howell cut the Golden Bulls lead to one (11-10). The Big Blue had their first lead of the night after a tip-in layup from Shainen Carter followed by a three from Jordan Hinds. Later in the half, the Big Blue scored six consecutive points to extend their lead 29-22 with five minutes left in the half. The Golden Bulls pulled within two with 1:38 to play, but the Big Blue would close out the half, outscoring the Golden Bulls 6-2 to take the 44-38 lead into the half.
The Golden Bulls took back the lead at the 15:53 mark, but the Big Blue battled back to take the eight-point lead. With just under five minutes left to play, a three by the Golden Bulls sparked an 11-point run to take the 82-72 lead with just 58 seconds left. A three by Jaylen Bernard broke up the Golden Bulls scoring run, but two free throws sealed the 84-75 victory over the Big Blue.
Hinds led the Big Blue with 25 points and seven rebounds. Rell Williams and Carter each added 10 points, and Romeo Aquino came away with 10 rebounds.
Final: Bluefield State 84, Johnson C. Smith 75
Up Next: Bluefield State @ Livingstone College Saturday, December 7th at 4:00 p.m.
