WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. — Columbia International University men's basketball opened its 2025–26 campaign with a hard-fought 84–74 loss to Carolina University on Thursday night inside Williams Gymnasium.

The Rams led 42–37 at halftime behind strong play from returning guard Jeffrey Clark, II, who scored 11 first-half points and finished with a game-high 24 points, going 10-for-11 from the free-throw line. Fellow starter James Davis added 17 points and one assist, while Johnny Whysong was just shy of a double-double with nine points and 10 rebounds.

Despite CIU's early momentum, the Bruins surged in the second half, outscoring the Rams 47–32. Carolina's size on the boards proved pivotal, as they outrebounded CIU 48–35 and shot 44.8% from the field compared to the Rams' 38.3%. The Rams also struggled from beyond the arc, connecting on just one of 17 three-point attempts.

CIU found success attacking the basket, scoring 36 points in the paint and converting 75% (27-for-36) of its free throws. However, Carolina's 18 second-half free throws helped them pull away down the stretch.

Other contributors for CIU included Will Kelly with eight points and Connor Higgins, who added three points and five rebounds off the bench.

The Rams (0–1) will look to regroup as they continue their early-season slate. CIU plays its home opener tomorrow, Oct. 24, at 3:00 p.m. ET versus No. 15 Ave Maria (Fla.).