Columbia International University Athletics

After having the best season in program history last year the Columbia International University men's basketball was ready to get back on the court and build off of last year. The Rams got their season started today as they tipped off against Trinity Baptist College in Jacksonville, FL. A strong second half surge lifted the Rams to a 75-63 victory.

The Eagles were able to score first, but the Rams were able to get their first points of the year of a shot from Tyrone Dantzler Jr. as he tied the game at two. The Eagles would then go on a run to take an early lead over the Rams. The Rams would start to chip away at the lead as they would cut it down to six after a made shot by Jordan Dillingham. Each team would go on little runs over ten minutes, but with 4:37 left in the half the Rams would trim the Eagles lead to one after a made shot by Damarcus Gay. The Eagles would go on another run and lead the Rams 29-22 at half.

The second half was all Rams as they exploded for 53 points. Just a couple minutes into the second half the Rams would tie the Eagles. Then, after three free throws made by Kameron Robinson the Rams took their first lead of the game and never let their foot of the gas. The Rams continued to push their lead and make their shots as they led by seventeen at one point with 2:12 remaining. The Eagles would score a couple more points at the end of the game, but the Rams would keep their double digit lead and win by the final score of 75-63.

Columbia International shot 44.3% for the game, while Trinity Baptist shot 47.4%...The second half was all Rams as they shot 53.1% from the field, made four threes, and fifteen from the charity stripe...The Rams had three players in double figures...Kameron Robinson led the way with 19 points and five rebounds...Tyrone Dantzler Jr. had 15 points with seven rebounds, and Jordan Dillingham was the last in double figures with 14 points...The Eagles were led by Jykale Walker with 16 points...The Rams have now won the season opener in the past two seasons.

"We started a little slow today, but I'm proud of the way that the guys battled back," said Head Coach Marshall Tague. "Our guards were able to drive to the basket and get a lot of good shots or force the Eagles to foul them. The defense in the second half was key as we were able to get some good opportunities off of our defensive plays. It's great to open the season with a win and especially a win on the road."

Columbia International will be back in action on Saturday as they have their first home game. The Rams will welcome nationally ranked NAIA Montreat College for a 3 p.m. game. This game will also be part of CIU's homecoming festivities.