The Bears battled for 40 minutes but could not come away with the win tonight against a tough Cumberland University squad. The Phoenix were able to earn the key MSC win, 68-65.
The first half was a competitive back and forth affair that saw each team grab the lead with their energy. Cumberland took their largest lead of the half, 24-16 on a Jordan Stephens 3 pointer, forcing an SSU timeout. The Bears dominated play the final 7 minutes of the half, sparked by their bench. Jaiden Guice knocked down a couple of threes on his way to 10 first half points. Miles Thomas also hit a pair from deep, as he had 8 at the break. SSU finished on a 19-5 run to take a 35-29 lead into the half.
After a Donoven Carlisle lay-up to start the second, the Phoenix went on a run of their own, to get back within 1, at 41-40. The lead would trade hands, as each team continued to battle to grab the momentum. Eventually, Cumberland would take a 6 point lead, 61-55 on a TJ Stargell lay-up with 6 minutes to go. Miles Thomas answered a Jordan Stephens three with one of his own, bringing the Bears within 4, at the 3 minute mark. It would remain tight through the final minutes, as SSU had the ball down 3 with less than 30 seconds. Amier Gilmore's three was off the mark and the Bears were able to battle for the rebound and get one last look when Cumberland couldn't secure the rebound. A well-executed baseline out of bounds play got a good look from Miles Thomas that just rimmed out at the buzzer, allowing Cumberland to escape with the 68-65 win,
The Bears are back in action Saturday afternoon when they host Lindsey Wilson College, tip is scheduled for 4:00 PM.
