MARRIETTA, Ga. - CIU men's basketball opened the 2023-2024 season on Friday night at the Ken Woods Memorial Classic hosted by Life University. The Rams faced the host school as the (RV) Running Eagles would eventually get the best of CIU 82-63 despite the two teams being tied at halftime.

The Rams trailed early in the contest but would come back to take the 11-9 lead over the Running Eagles off a three from DiAnthony Heathcock (15:26). A few minutes later the Rams grew their advantage to 17-11 off a layup from freshman Johnny Whysong. CIU gave up the lead as the minutes dwindled by, but Heathcok put the Rams back in front on a dunk (28-27) with 4:14 left before the break. 

CIU found themselves knotted with the Running Eagles coming out of the intermission as both teams traded baskets in the early portion of the second half. However an 8-0 run from Life put the Rams down double-digits (58-48) just under the 12:00 minute mark. CIU got back within six (66-60) with 5:13 remaining in the contest, but it was as close as they would get as the Running Eagles pulled away down the stretch for a 19-point win. 

Christian Howard was excellent around the rim, going 10-for-13 with a team-high 20 points to go along with five rebounds. Heathcock had a solid start to his senior season, knocking down two triples on his way to 15 points and seven rebounds. 

Bryce Causey went 2-for-3 from beyond the arc and was the third Ram in double-figures with ten points. 

Overall, the Rams shot a notable 46% from the field and 41% from three, but 13 total turnovers hurt their chances at a second-half comeback. 

What Coach Tony Stockman is saying: "Starting the season on the road is always a challenge. I thought we made some plays on the offensive end and hit open shots. However, scoring just 27-second half points against a team of Life's caliber is not going to give us the result we wanted. There's a lot we can learn from this as we get ready for Bethel tomorrow."

Up Next: CIU plays its second game at the Ken Woods Memorial Classic tomorrow, Oct. 28, as they face Bethel (Tenn.) at noon.