COLUMBIA, S.C. — CIU men's basketball earned a key Appalachian Athletic Conference victory Saturday afternoon, defeating Tennessee Wesleyan 81–73 at the Moore Fitness Center to move to 12–8 overall and 7–5 in league play.
The Rams set the tone early, taking a 42–36 lead into halftime and maintaining control through a competitive second half. Tennessee Wesleyan stayed within striking distance late, but CIU answered each push with timely execution down the stretch.
Senior guard Will Kelly delivered the decisive moment, drilling a late three-pointer to extend CIU's lead to 81–71 in the final minute and effectively seal the win. Kelly finished with a game-high 26 points, including a perfect 12-for-12 performance at the free-throw line.
Jeffrey Clark, II followed with 24 points and four assists, while Johnny Whysong contributed a well-rounded line of 10 points, nine rebounds, and five assists. Tristyn Carrington added eight points off the bench, and the Rams finished with 15 assists on 25 made field goals.
CIU shot efficiently from the floor and controlled the glass, holding a 34–33 rebounding edge while converting 24-of-28 attempts from the free-throw line.
The Rams return to action on Saturday, Jan. 24, hosting No. 12-ranked University of Pikeville at 4:00 p.m. ET.
