DAYTON, TN – The Bryan College Lions dropped their Appalachian Athletic Conference opener to visiting Truett McConnell, falling 74-63 on Wednesday night at Summers Gym. The loss drops Bryan to 1-5 overall and 0-1 in conference play, while the Bears improved to 2-1 and 1-0 in the AAC.
Despite a spirited effort that saw the game tied five times with 11 lead changes, Bryan ultimately couldn't overcome a potent Truett McConnell attack that shot 46.2% from the floor and dominated at the free-throw line, converting 21 of 27 attempts.
Jerry Taylor Jr. paced the Lions with a team-high 18 points on 6-of-13 shooting, adding six rebounds and a block in 25 minutes of action. Taylor Jr. was particularly effective in the second half, pouring in 14 points to keep Bryan within striking distance.
Derek Curtis provided a spark off the bench with 11 points on perfect 4-of-4 shooting, including a three-pointer. Curtis added three assists in 22 minutes, showcasing efficient playmaking for the Lions' second unit.
Kole Torres also contributed 11 points, hitting three three-pointers, while
Haydn Moten added seven points and a team-high seven rebounds.
Bryan trailed 31-29 at halftime but couldn't maintain momentum in the second period. The Lions briefly seized a 46-44 lead midway through the second half on a Curtis layup at the 14:11 mark, but Truett McConnell responded with timely baskets and stout defense down the stretch.
The Bears' bench proved to be the difference, outscoring Bryan's reserves 44-24. Preston Tuggle led the onslaught with 12 points, while Omari Joseph and Preston Kent each added valuable contributions in support of the Bears' starting five.
Bryan's 21 turnovers compared to just 12 for Truett McConnell told much of the story. The Bears converted those miscues into 26 points, while Bryan managed only 17 points off turnovers. Truett McConnell also dominated in the paint, outscoring Bryan 36-28 in that category, and held a significant advantage in fast-break points, 12-4.
Bryan will look to bounce back as they continue AAC play. The Lions will be on the road playing an exhibition game at UNC Asheville on Thursday at 6:30 pm.
