KINGSPORT, Tenn. — Playing their fourth game in five days, CIU men's basketball capped its appearance at NAIA "The Show" with an 85–76 victory over the University of Tennessee Southern on Saturday at the MeadowView Conference Resort and Convention Center. The win moves the Rams to 7–5 on the season.

CIU jumped out to a 40–33 halftime lead behind efficient shooting and strong ball movement. The Rams shot 50 percent from the field and 39.1 percent from three while outrebounding Tennessee Southern 44–31. CIU also held the Firehawks to 40.3 percent shooting and limited second-chance opportunities throughout the afternoon.

JJ Vaughan powered the Rams with 31 points on 11-of-17 shooting, including seven three-pointers. Johnny Whysong followed with 15 points, 16 rebounds, and seven assists — leaving him just three assists shy of a triple-double. James Davis and Will Kelly added 12 points each, with Kelly also recording five assists. Off the bench, Tristyn Carrington contributed 10 points and four rebounds.

CIU led for nearly the entire contest, building its advantage to as many as 18 points in the second half and maintaining control down the stretch.

Following a challenging five-day stretch, CIU now gets a full week of rest before returning to Appalachian Athletic Conference play. The Rams travel to face Milligan University on Saturday, Dec. 6, at 3 p.m. ET.