DAYTON, Tenn. – The Bryan Lions fell to visiting Tennessee Wesleyan 69-65 on Tuesday night at Summers Gymnasium, unable to overcome a slow second half.

Bryan led 34-28 at halftime behind strong play from Kole Torres, who scored nine of his team-high 11 points in the opening period. The Lions shot nearly 40% from the field in the first half and controlled the paint, outscoring the Bulldogs 48-36 in that area for the game.

However, Tennessee Wesleyan dominated the second half, outscoring Bryan 41-31 to complete the comeback. The Bulldogs were led by Reshaun Hampton's 17 points, including 12 in the second half. Aaron Layne added 14 points off the bench, while Ty Runyan contributed 11 points and seven assists.

Bryan struggled from beyond the arc, converting just 3-of-26 three-point attempts (11.5%). Torres was 1-for-9 from three-point range, while the team shot only 8.3% from distance in the second half.

Haydn Moten recorded a double-double for the Lions with 10 points and 14 rebounds. Ty Gibbs also scored 10 points, while Derek Curtis added 11 points off the bench. The Lions forced 18 turnovers and converted them into 18 points, but it wasn't enough to overcome their shooting woes.

Tennessee Wesleyan's bench outscored Bryan's reserves 29-22, providing crucial depth in the victory. The Bulldogs shot 80% from the free-throw line compared to Bryan's 54.5%, which proved pivotal down the stretch.

The loss drops Bryan's record to 8-11 as the Lions continue their season. They'll look to bounce back in their next contest with improved shooting from the perimeter. They will be on the road to Spartanburg Methodist on Friday. Tip off is slated for 4:00 pm.