DEMOREST, Ga.— The Lions came away with a big home win over the Baptist University of Florida Eagles Saturday night, led by a career-high 18 points from sophomore Jackson Houston.
Out of the gate both sides matched each other with speed and intensity, with no team being held down for long. The Lions adapted quickly to a fast presence from their opposition with several players rotating in off the bench. Jackson Houston came off the bench and built a strong first half that kept the Lions to within a possession entering the locker room with a score of 34-44 in favor of the Eagles.
Piedmont would enter the second half on fire as they rode a 24-17 run to not only take the lead but also create separation. A large part of the run was Israel Hall and Dylan Patrick bringing the heat as the duo rallied for 14 points between each other.
Piedmont would officially pull away from the Eagles with eight minutes left on the clock after another Houston three-pointer. The Eagles would chip into the lead little by little with the clock winding down, but the consistent surge of the Lions’ offense would lead Piedmont to an eventual ten-point victory with a final score of 88-78.
While the Lions’ offense once again started slow, their propensity for explosive plays proves to be a strength.
Jackson Houston had a career night as he led the Lions with 18 points, while Dylan Patrick and Israel Hall turned it on in the second half and collected 16 and 14 points, respectively.
The Lions will see action once again when they travel to Young Harris on Dec. 10 for a DII Exhibition at 2:00 p.m.
TURNING POINT:
– A three pointer by Jackson Houston late in the second half that created the final separation
STANDOUT PERFORMANCES:
– Jackson Houston scored a career-high 18 points in the victory.
– Israel Hall continues to impress finishing with 14 points while playing the most minutes on the night.
– Freshman Parker Renault showed out again posting another double-double performance with 12 points and 13 rebounds which led the team.
