SPARTANBURG, S.C. - Johnny Whysong's putback in the waning moments of CIU men's basketball's neutral site contest with Warner (Fla.) would move the Rams to 2-0 on the season as CIU defeated the Royals 77-75.

The game was close throughout with the Rams leading by just two 21-19 midway through the first half after a Whysong 3-pointer. Neither team was able to gain more then a two-point advantage before the intermission as Warner led 42-40 at the break.

CIU's largest lead of the second half came at the 11:07 mark, as Christian Howard knocked down two free throws to put the Rams up 58-52. However, the lead was shortlived, and the Rams would eventually find themselves deadlocked at 75-75 after a pair of free throws from the Royals with 18 ticks left on the clock.

Will Kelly's 3-point attempt with four seconds remaining was cleaned up by Whysong, pushing the Rams in front 77-75. The Royals then turned the ball over on their final possession, as CIU held on for the victory.

Whysong scored 17 points on 8-of-14 shooting to go along with eight rebounds, while Howard was a rebound shy of a double-double with 19 points and nine boards. Kelly added nine points off three triples to complement five assists.

Despite some struggles from beyond the arc, the Rams shot nearly 50% from the field while forcing 13 Warner turnovers.

Up Next: CIU will face Furman (S.C.) on Monday, Nov. 4, in an exhibition game held at Bon Secours Wellness Arena in Greenville. Tip-off is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. EST.