WALESKA, Ga. — CIU men's basketball closed out the 2025 calendar year on Saturday afternoon with a 95–80 loss to Reinhardt University in Appalachian Athletic Conference (AAC) play.

The Rams stayed within striking distance early, trailing 49–41 at halftime after shooting better than 54 percent from the field in the opening half. Reinhardt maintained control after the break, however, shooting over 55 percent in the second half and extending the margin with consistent scoring in the paint and at the free-throw line.

Will Kelly led CIU with 25 points on 10-of-17 shooting while going a perfect 5-for-5 at the free-throw line. Johnny Whysong followed with 19 points and seven rebounds, and James Davis finished with 10 points, five assists, and three rebounds. Connor Higgins added eight points and nine rebounds, while Tristyn Carrington chipped in eight points off the bench.

CIU shot 52.5 percent from the floor for the game and held a 38–36 edge in points in the paint, but Reinhardt converted turnovers into key baskets and shot over 60 percent overall to pull away late.

With the loss, CIU moves to 9–6 overall and 4–3 in AAC action.

The Rams return to the court after the holiday break on Friday, Jan. 3, traveling to face Johnson University in Knoxville, Tenn., at 4:00 p.m. ET.