BLUEFIELD, W.Va. - The Bluefield University Rams pulled away in the final two minutes to defeat the Bluefield State University Big Blue in the Battle of the Bluefields 83-76 before a capacity crowd at the Ned Shott Gymnasium, Saturday night. The game was an exhibition for the Rams, but nevertheless bragging rights will rest on the Virginia side of Bluefield.
INSIDE THE GAME

• The Rams  had a strong push in late in the first half to erase a BSU lead and take a 36-28 halftime lead.
• BU shot 39% from the field in the first half.
• The teams battled closely in the second half before BU pulled away in the final minutes.
• BU shot 49 percent in the second half.
• The Rams' bench outscored the Big Blue bench 44-7.
• BU held a 58-48 rebounding advantage.

LEADERS

• Volante Carroll had 28 rebounds to go with 12 points.
• Jamal Hinkle led the Rams in scoring with 22 points.
• Brandon Shields added 14 points.
• Kaleb Hewitt finished with 12 points.

NEXT IN LINE

• The Rams return to Appalachian Athletic Conference play next Saturday at Bryan College.