Rams Edge Out Eagles In Tight Battle

By Erinn Marroquin

WALESKA-GA. - The Reinhardt University Men's Basketball team is now 2-3 overall and 1-2 in the AAC with a 78-80 loss to Bluefield University (VA.). 

The Eagles came out strong in the first half with a 22-10 lead on their opponent within the first eight minutes. A five-point drive from the Rams lessened the lead to 7 but two 3-pointers and a free throw from Keyshaun Street brought his team a double-digit lead once again to make the score 29-15. Bluefield fought to make it back within 7 points one more time but consistency and strong defense by Reinhardt helped them handle business and finish the half up 47-36. 

The Rams seemed determined to make their way back in the game and trios of errors by the hometown squad made it easier for them to do so. The Eagles were up 61-52 with 12:50 left in the game but a 6-0 run helped the Rams get back within 3 points to 58-61 with 9:51 remaining until the last whistle. Reinhardt was without the lead for only the second time in the game when a 3-pointer from the Rams with 5:11 on the clock shot them into the lead 73-71. 

The Eagles held their last lead of the game at 76-75 with 3 minutes remaining in the game and a sole layup was the only new movement they gave the scoreboard. A late dunk and a 3-pointer from Bluefield paired with 6 missed shots from the Eagles handed Reinhardt their first conference loss in the early stage of the season. 

Reinhardt v. Bluefield 

• Kristian Collins led the team in two categories and tallied a double-double with 21 points and 11 rebounds. 
• Dereck Lampkin was second in line with 13 points while Jalin Wimberly and Tyler Smith each added 10 to the total. 
• Tafari Thompson brought in 9 points and 9 rebounds. 

The Eagles are back on the road as they travel to take on the Rams of Columbia International University (SC.) on Wednesday, November 17th at 7:30 PM. 

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For more information on Reinhardt Women's Soccer, please click here.