DAYTON, Tenn. – Jerry Taylor Jr. delivered a dominant performance with 26 points to lead Bryan College to an 84-70 victory over Milligan on Saturday afternoon at Summers Gymnasium.

Taylor was nearly unstoppable, shooting 8-for-14 from the field and converting 10 of 15 free throw attempts. The junior forward also contributed five rebounds and two blocks in 33 minutes of action.

Bryan built a commanding first-half lead, shooting an impressive 58.8% from the field and 55.6% from three-point range to take a 46-31 advantage into halftime. The Lions' balanced attack saw five players score in double figures during the opening 20 minutes.

"Bill Robinson is one of the best coaches in our conference and he does an unbelievable job," said Head Coach Jason Laatsch. "We knew that we needed to have a great game plan in order to have a chance to defeat them," he continued. "I am so proud of our team and how we executed the game plan and I am also proud of how we responded to adversity when Milligan made their runs to get back into the game," he added 

Dalen Gales provided a crucial spark off the bench, finishing with 21 points on 8-for-12 shooting, including three three-pointers. Gales also recorded four steals and dished out two assists in 22 minutes.

Izaiha Bredwood added seven points and five rebounds, while Cal Drake contributed eight points in 17 minutes. The Lions' bench combined for 38 points, matching Milligan's reserve production.

Bryan's largest lead came in the second half at 55-35 with 17:34 remaining. Though Milligan made several runs to cut into the deficit, Bryan maintained control throughout the final period.

Sergej Cvetkovic led Milligan's second-half comeback attempt with 15 points off the bench, connecting on three of seven three-point attempts. Bo Koebbe added nine points and nine rebounds, while Te'Jon McDaniel-McCormick finished with nine points, five rebounds, and three assists.

Bryan dominated several key statistical categories, shooting 50.0% from the field compared to Milligan's 40.3%. The Lions also held a 40-34 advantage in points in the paint and outrebounded the Buffaloes 32-29.

The victory extends Bryan's momentum as they continue their conference schedule. The Lions will look to build on this performance in their next outing. "I want to thank all the Bryan faithful that came out today to support our team. We are very thankful for you and the home court advantage that you create," noted Coach Laatsch. 

The Lions will be on the road for a midweek match up against the Bears of U. Pike next Wednesday.