Columbia International University Athletics

Columbia, SC -- The Columbia International University and the Piedmont International University men's basketball teams took to the court first for the opening round of the NCCAA South Region Tournament. The tournament was hosted by CIU, but the Rams were the away team and the Bruins were the home team. The two teams battled in the first half as it was a tight game, but a strong second half performance lifted the Bruins to victory.

The Basics
Score: CIU 78 / PIU 93
Records: CIU 7-23 / PIU 14-10
Location: Columbia, SC

How it Happened:

• The Rams opened the game strong scoring the first four points. The Bruins would score the games next six points to take their first lead, but a three from Damian Hurta on the Rams next possession gave the Rams the lead back. The Rams would continue to hold onto the lead and take their largest early lead, 14-8, after a jumper from Jacob Cook. The Bruins would tie the game at 14 with 11:54 left in the half. However, the Rams would go on a 7-0 run to regain the lead. 
• The two teams would continue to battle, but with just about three minutes left in the half the Bruins would take a 30-28 lead. The two teams went back and forth and a last second layup gave the Bruins a 40-39 lead.
• Over the first couple minutes of the second half the Bruins opened on a 10-1 run. The Rams would try to cut into the Bruins lead, but it seemed as if the Bruins hit every shot they took. The Bruins would hold onto a double digit lead throughout the second half and win by the final score of 93-78.

Inside the Columbia International Box Score:

• The Rams shot 43.3% (26-of-60) from the floor and were 9-of-20 from the three point line
• Damian Hurta led the Rams with 19 points and six rebounds
• Tyrone Dantzler Jr. chipped in with 16 points and five rebounds
• Jacob Cook had 13 points and six rebounds

Inside the Piedmont International Box Score:

• The Bruins shot 45.5% (30-of-66) from the field and were 13-of-23 from beyond the arch
• Tamir Glenn led the Bruins with 29 points, six rebounds, and five assists
• Nash Carter had 26 points, five assists, and four rebounds

The Rams season comes to a close as the finish the year 7-23.