Winston-Salem, N.C. – The Carolina University Men's Basketball team, led by Head Coach Jake Heck, returned to Williams Gymnasium on Saturday afternoon for their third game of the 2025–26 season and second home contest of the year. Despite a strong effort and energy from the home crowd, the Bruins came up short against a sharp-shooting Milligan University squad, falling 77–53.

Milligan's offensive rhythm proved to be the difference, shooting 48% from the field and 46% from three-point range, led by Elijah Bredwood's 20 points and 8 rebounds. Te'Jon McDaniel-McCormick added a double-double with 16 points and 10 rebounds, while Jake Benham contributed 15 points and 3 steals for the Buffaloes.

Carolina battled throughout, showing moments of intensity and resilience on both ends of the court. The Bruins were led by Tristan Kuska, who recorded a near double-double with 12 points and 8 rebounds, while Shawn Woodson added 11 points and Deuce Ford dished out 3 assists to go along with 5 rebounds.

The Bruins struggled to find consistency from beyond the arc, finishing 2-for-22 (9.1%) from three-point range, but maintained their composure on the glass, matching Milligan with 38 rebounds apiece. Carolina also showed improved second-half energy, scoring 30 points after halftime and keeping pace for much of the final period.

Coach Heck praised his team's competitiveness despite the outcome:

"We're still learning how to play together as a unit and execute under pressure," said Coach Heck. "Our effort and physicality were there, but we've got to clean up the details and stay composed offensively. These early-season games are about growing and building toward the standard we expect here."

Carolina now sits at 1–2 on the young season and will look to bounce back in their next matchup. The Bruins continue to emphasize defensive toughness and team chemistry as they move deeper into non-conference play.