DAYTON, Tenn. — Despite falling 77-72 to Union Commonwealth on Wednesday night at Summers Gymnasium, the Bryan College Lions demonstrated significant improvements and competitive fire that has coaching staff and fans alike feeling optimistic about the team's trajectory.
The Lions shot an impressive 53.8% from the field and a scorching 46.7% from three-point range, showcasing the offensive improvements the team has been working toward all season. The sharp shooting from beyond the arc, where Bryan connected on 7-of-15 attempts, kept the Lions in striking distance throughout the contest.
Four Lions reached double figures in scoring, demonstrating the balanced offensive attack Bryan has been developing.
Ty Gibbs led the way with a stellar all-around performance, posting 13 points and pulling down a game-high 12 rebounds for his first double-double of the season. Gibbs also dished out 3 assists and shot a perfect 6-for-6 from the free-throw line.
Jerry Taylor Jr. continued his strong play in the paint, adding 14 points on efficient 7-of-11 shooting while grabbing 8 rebounds.
Kole Torres poured in 12 points including two crucial three-pointers in the second half, while
Izaiha Bredwood contributed 12 points, 5 assists, and provided steady leadership at the point guard position.
The Lions' bench matched Union Commonwealth's reserves with 16 points, led by
Regale Moore's efficient 10 points on 4-of-5 shooting, including two three-pointers. Moore's energy off the bench in the first half helped Bryan build a six-point lead.
Derek Curtis added 6 points and provided solid minutes when called upon, showing the depth that will be crucial down the stretch.
Bryan's 35-26 rebounding advantage was a key factor in keeping the game competitive. The Lions' commitment to crashing the boards resulted in 14 second-chance points and limited Union Commonwealth's offensive rebounds to just 10.
While the final score didn't go Bryan's way, the team showed marked improvement in several key areas. The Lions' 81.8% free-throw shooting was a significant upgrade from recent performances, and the team's assist-to-turnover ratio, while still a work in progress, showed better ball security with 15 assists.
The defensive effort, particularly in limiting Union Commonwealth to just 22.7% from three-point range, demonstrated the Lions' ability to contest shots and defend the perimeter.
The Lions return to action this weekend as they continue their push toward a strong finish to the season. They will be on the road to Columbia International.
