Mars Hill downed by Pioneers in 2025 home finale
MARS HILL, N.C. - The Mars Hill men's basketball team (7-3, 2-3 SAC) was defeated by Tusculum (6-5, 3-3 SAC) by a score of 77-60 Wednesday evening.
The Pioneers shot nearly 50 percent from beyond the arc in the first half, drilling seven with TJ Printup, Wesley Johnson, and Malachi Hale each hitting two. Hale led all players with 10 points followed nine from Bryce Johnson.
The Lions were held to just 20 first half points with Jaheim Taylor's eight leading the way. Keenan Wilkins added five. Ashton Troutman led Mars Hill with five rebounds while Wilkins led the team with two assists and two steals.
A valiant Lions' effort saw the team claw to within two points, 54-52, with under six minutes to play. However, Tusculum responded with an 11-3 run to distance themselves once again and cling on to the victory.
Caden Owens led the Lions with 10 points in the half, seven coming from the charity stripe. Taylor added eight points followed by seven from Christian Foy. Alejandro Ford led the team with six rebounds in the half.
Taylor led the Lions with 16 points followed by Owens' 13 on the night. Ford and Wilkins led Mars Hill with seven rebounds apiece while Wilkins led the team with four assists and three steals.
Mars Hill returns to action on Saturday, December 20 when they face the Bears of Lenoir-Rhyne on the road. Tipoff is set for 4 p.m.
