COLUMBIA, S.C. - CIU returned home for their final home game of 2021 as they hosted Milligan University (0-7, 0-6 AAC) Wednesday night. The Rams (5-3, 3-3 AAC) looked to continue their winning ways as they had won their past three conference games after losing their first three to start the season. The Rams took care of business against the Buffs, winning at home 92-79, extending their win streak to four games. 

The Buff got off to an early advantage in the first half leading by as much as seven (19-12) at the 9:43 mark. However, the Rams would settle in, going on a 29-12 run to close the half. The Rams led by 10 (41-31) at the break. 

The Rams began to stretch the lead as they settled into their offense in the second half. The Rams would go up by as much as 24 (67-43) at the 10:05 mark. The Rams would cruise to a 92-79 win with another crucial conference victory. 

CIU outrebounded the Buffs 47 to 31, which was an instrumental part of the Rams' success. They were also very effective in drawing fouls while driving to the basket. As a result, they would shoot an efficient 80% from the free-throw line going 21-26.

Freshman guard Devin Pope would lead the way in scoring for the Rams with a season-high 23 points off the bench. Darrian Oates added 13 points and snagged nine boards. Freshman Christian Howard was also impactful off the bench with 12 points and seven rebounds.  

The conference's assist leader, Jalen Brinson, had another big night sharing the ball, dishing out nine assists to go along with eight points. 

Hear from Coach Tony Stockman postgame: 


Up Next: 
The Rams will head to Athens, Tenn., for another conference game against Tennessee Wesleyan on Saturday, Dec. 4, at 4 PM.