Charleston, S.C. Junior forward Demetrius Nelson recorded a career-high 23 points to lead the Bulldogs to an 81-60 win over Asbury on Friday, Nov. 24 at McAlister Field House. Before a crowd of 1,053, The Citadel Basketball broke their five-game losing streak by recording their second consecutive win at home.
“Well, we did shoot a little better today,” Conroy said about his team that hit 30-of-62 baskets for 48.4 percent. “However, I was more pleased with our shot selection in the second half.”
The Bulldogs, who came out a little sluggish in the first half after a five-game road trip that ended on Wednesday, only held a six-point lead over the Eagles at the half, but returned in the second to shoot 56.7 percent from the field. Senior guard Donny McLendon, who ended the game with 22 points, hit four three-pointers in the second half, totaling six for the game, while sophomore guard Vytautas Valiulis hit three from long range in the first period, both contributing to The Citadel's 11-of-28 attempts for 39.3 percent, a season high.
“I have an excellent staff and they have worked hard since the first day on all the fundamentals of basketball. It has not always shown up in our shooting but some like Donny and Vytautas have come a long way and I feel like others are on the verge,” Conroy added.
Leading Asbury off the bench was Michael Spann with 15 points, two assists and one steal, while starting guard Derek Bland contributed 14 points. Forward Brandon Fentress totaled 10 points and led the Eagles with eight boards.
The Citadel was outrebounded by Asbury 30-24, but recorded 11 steals and forced 21 turnovers that resulted in 23 Bulldog points. Three players led The Citadel with six boards, including senior forward J'Mel Everhart, Nelson and senior guard Kevin Hammack, who also recorded 11 points, four assists and five steals.
The Bulldogs improved to 2-5 overall and will play their second of a four-game home stretch against the University of South Carolina on Monday, Nov. 27 at 7:05 p.m. For more information on Bulldog Basketball, go to www.CitadelSports.com.
