Royals defeat Lions 74-70, improve to 10-5

Toure Fudge had the hot hand early, scoring 9 points in the first five minutes of the half, going 3-3 from behind the arc.  Bryan struggled to get momentum going early as the Royals defense kept them in check, only shooting 33% from the field.  With a couple quick layups in transition from Brandon Bannis and Dorian Shinhoster, the Royals would extend their lead to 11 points at 30-19 with six minutes to play in the first half.  The Lion followed with a few quick scores of their own, and they would close the gap to a 3-point lead. but the Royals would counter with a 9-point run to take a 41-29 lead at half. 

To start the second half, Toure Fudge hit back-to-back 3-pointers and give the Royals a 15-point advantage.  The Lions made a run of their own behind KJ Hawkins and Isaiah McClain, both hitting quality shots to keep their team close.  As the second half progressed, each team would see their offense cool off as they would go over three minutes without scoring.  As both teams came down the stretch, the Lions would make one final push to tie the game at 70-70 with just over a minute left in regulation.  Johnson's Coby Jones would hit a jump shot to put the Royals up 72-70.  The Lions would get a chance to tie, but Isaiah McClain would miss his jump shot and the Lions were forced to foul Coby Jones.  Jones would head to the line and sink both free throws, and the Royals would go on to defeat the Lions 74-70 and improve to 10-5 on the season.   

In his post-game interview Coach Perry said, "tonight was our third NAIA D2 win and we've beaten four NCAA D3 teams this year." When asked about the contributions so far this season "it's been a team effort, and that's been the big thing.  It's been multiple guys coming together and doing things well", said Perry. 

The Royals are back in action on January 10 against Mid-East Region opponent Boyce College, tipoff will be 7pm at Douglas Karnes Arena.