ASHVILLE - CIU men's basketball played their second consecutive NCAA Division I opponent hailing from the Big South Conference as the Rams fell to UNC-Ashville, 95-53 in what was an exhibition game for CIU on Tuesday. The Rams entered the evening 1-0 on the season in UNCA's Kimmel Arena, having defeated Montreat College (N.C.) in the venue in the early portion of the season.

The Rams never led but did have two players in double-figures, as Christian Howard scored 11 points and pulled down five rebounds, while Will Kelly posted ten points, knocking down two 3-pointers. Fellow starter Brandon Hunt chipped nine points and four boards, while JJ Vaughan came off the bench to score seven points in 17 minutes of work.

The Rams forced ten turnovers from a Bulldog team that has seen notable success over the last several seasons and was picked to finish fourth in the Big South Preseason Poll.

Up Next: CIU plays their final non-conference contest of the 2024-2025 season on Wednesday, Jan. 1, as they travel to USC-Aiken to take on the Pacers in what will be an exhibition matchup for the Rams with tip slated for 7:30 p.m. ET.