Bluefield, VA – The Bluefield University Rams secured their first win of the season with an 83-76 triumph over the Montreat Cavaliers in a key conference matchup. Entering the game with a 0-2 conference record, Bluefield was determined to rebound against a Montreat team that boasted a 6-1 overall record and a 1-1 conference mark. This victory not only marked their first of the season but also provided a crucial confidence boost as they look to build momentum in the coming weeks.
Game Breakdown
The Rams came out strong and set the tone early, with DeAndre Miles leading the charge. The senior guard finished as the game's top scorer with 21 points, adding 3 rebounds and 3 assists while shooting 50% from the field. Quantavis McKinney was a force on both ends, contributing 14 points and 8 rebounds. Justin Wiggins also made a major impact, hitting 4 of 8 from beyond the arc for 12 points, while also adding 3 assists.
Elijah White had a well-rounded performance, scoring 10 points, grabbing 9 rebounds, and dishing out 4 assists. Bluefield's offense was firing on all cylinders in the first half, shooting 46.2% from the field and a sizzling 60% from 3-point range. Jordan Lineberger added 9 points and grabbed 10 rebounds, providing a key presence in the paint. Senior Donavon Martin also contributed, scoring 10 points and pulling down 6 boards.
The Rams capitalized on free throw opportunities, converting 68.8% from the line, and built an 11-point lead thanks to their balanced offensive attack and solid defense. However, Montreat would not go down without a fight. The Cavaliers made a push in the second half, closing the gap and making it a tense, back-and-forth affair.
Clutch Second Half
Montreat mounted a comeback late in the game, with several players stepping up to hit key shots and keep the contest within striking distance. However, McKinney and White proved to be crucial in holding Montreat off. White, stepped up with clutch free throws in the final minutes, helping to seal the victory for the Rams.
One of the game's defining moments came when McKinney made a critical defensive play, blocking a potential fast-break layup from Montreat, which shifted the momentum back in Bluefield's favor.
Depth and Defensive Effort
Bluefield showed impressive depth, with the bench contributing 31 points, which helped maintain energy throughout the game. The Rams also excelled in second-chance opportunities, outscoring Montreat 34-18 in the paint and forcing key turnovers when it mattered most.
Conclusion
In the end, Bluefield's balanced attack and strong second-half performance allowed them to secure an 83-76 victory over Montreat. The key to the win was their ability to maintain offensive rhythm despite Montreat's late-game pressure, while stepping up defensively when needed.
With the victory, Bluefield improves to 1-2 in conference play and 1-6 overall. The Rams will look to build on this win as they continue their season and aim to further solidify their standing in the conference.
Head Coach Richard Morgan: "I am so proud of the guys' effort tonight. We had to bounce back after a tough game at King on Monday. We need to build on this game and continue playing hard every game! Go Rams."
Next Up
Bluefield will look to carry the momentum from this win into their next match-up, an exhibition game against Bluefield State this Saturday at 4 p.m.
