Winston-Salem, N.C. — Carolina University Men's Basketball showed tremendous resilience on Tuesday night inside Williams Gymnasium, rallying from a slow start to force overtime before ultimately falling in a heartbreaker to Montreat College, 82–81. The Bruins move to 2–7 on the season after the narrow setback.

Montreat opened the night on a blistering pace, shooting 59% in the first half and building a 48–26 lead at the break. Despite the deficit, the Bruins came out of halftime poised and determined, flipping the momentum with a 45-point second half powered by efficiency, defensive pressure, and transition scoring. Carolina shot 62% from the field after halftime and held Montreat to just 23 points in the period, storming all the way back to tie the game at 71–71 and force overtime.

In the extra period, both teams continued to trade crucial baskets. Trailing late, the Bruins battled to the final possession. Mike Wade stepped to the line and calmly knocked down two free throws with two seconds remaining to give Carolina an 81–80 lead, but Montreat answered with late free throws of their own and managed to escape with the one-point victory.

Shawn Woodson led Carolina with 19 points, including several critical second-half buckets. Cooper Smith and Tristan Kuska each added 16 points, while DJ Evans delivered 15 points and six assists, igniting the Bruins' comeback effort. Carolina outscored Montreat 44–38 in the paint and forced 25 Cavalier turnovers.

Coach Heck's Postgame Remarks

Head Coach Jacob Heck postgame remarks from last night's loss in overtime tough loss:

"We didn't come out with the urgency we needed, and it showed early. But what I'm proud of is how our guys responded. They could have folded, but instead they fought possession by possession, defended, made plays, and gave themselves a chance to win in overtime. That kind of grit is something we can build on moving forward."— Head Coach Jacob Heck