Athens, TN – The CIU men's basketball team traveled to Tennessee on Saturday, after playing in the same state against Milligan College last week. The Rams took on Tennessee Wesleyan for the second time this season. The first meeting between the two squads came earlier in the year when the Bulldogs defeated CIU 101-98. The Rams entered tonight's contest coming off a loss to the Milligan College Buffs a week ago.

How It Happened:

CIU 38 TWU 32: The Rams saw strong play from Jeff McIlwain to start the game as the big man scored 6 of the Rams first 9 points. CIU would also see a solid first half from Elijah Spalding, who helped the Rams out to a 31-22 lead with 5:00 minutes remaining in the half. After scores from Arthur Pearson and John Johnson, CIU would take a 38-32 advantage into the break.

TWU 88 CIU 83: The Rams would gain as much as a 12-point lead 50-38 after a Pearson layup just before the 16:00 minute mark. The Bulldogs would slowly climb back in the game despite good shooting from Corey Benton. TWU would pull within six 77-71 until a Benton a three put the Rams up by nine with 2:36 remaining in regulation. Unfortunately for the Rams, TWU would end the game on a 17-6 run to steal a win from the CIU, 88-83.

Game Notes:

• Four of CIU's five starters scored in double digits: Corey Benton (19), Arthur Pearson (16), Jeff McIlwain (15), Skyler McKinney (10).
• McIlwain also pulled down 11 rebounds to record a double-double.
• Corey Benton knocked down five of the Rams six three-pointers.
• Elijah Spalding scored 14 points on a perfect 4-4 shooting from the line.

Up Next

The Rams will host Point University on Tuesday, January 25th.