COLUMBIA, S.C. — CIU men's basketball posted one of its strongest offensive performances of the season on Tuesday night, defeating Columbia College 103–82 inside the Moore Fitness Center. The Rams improve to 6–4 overall and 2–2 in Appalachian Athletic Conference play.
CIU shot 55.3 percent from the field and 54.5 percent from three in the first half, building a 56–36 lead at the break. The Rams continued their efficient pace in the second half, finishing the game at 58.2 percent shooting and 55 percent from beyond the arc while outscoring Columbia 54–36 in the paint.
Will Kelly led all scorers with 27 points on 8-of-16 shooting, including three three-pointers, and added six rebounds. Jeffrey Clark, II followed with 17 points and 10 rebounds for a double-double, while Rhett Warga added 12 points on 5-of-8 shooting. Johnny Whysong orchestrated the offense with 11 assists to go along with nine points and four rebounds.
CIU's bench delivered 34 points, highlighted by JJ Vaughan's 20-point performance on 8-of-12 shooting. The Rams forced 15 turnovers and converted them into 23 points, maintaining a comfortable lead throughout the second half.
CIU has a quick turnaround and will travel to face Division I opponent Presbyterian College in an exhibition game on Wednesday, Nov. 25, at 1:00 p.m. ET.