WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. — After navigating a demanding non-conference slate and continuing to solidify team chemistry under head coach Jacob Heck, Carolina University Men's Basketball delivered a resilient performance on Tuesday night, defeating Alice Lloyd College 75–70 in the CAC conference opener inside Williams Gymnasium.
Carolina entered the matchup 2–8 overall, while Alice Lloyd arrived at 3–8, setting the stage for two hungry programs seeking momentum to open league play. The first half reflected that urgency, as both squads traded baskets and defensive stops. The Bruins trailed just 38–35 at halftime, but their energy noticeably shifted coming out of the locker room.
In the second half, Carolina surged, outscoring the Eagles 40–32 behind balanced scoring, improved defensive pressure, and a strong effort on the glass. Thirteen Bruins entered the game, and their depth proved valuable as CU tallied 32 bench points and controlled the rebounding battle 47–27.
Offensively, the Bruins were efficient when it mattered, shooting 43.4% from the field and earning frequent trips to the free-throw line. Freshman guard DJ Evans led the way with 15 points, while Tristan Kuska added 13, and Da'Shaun Stigler provided a critical spark with 14 points off the bench. Conrad Linhart's shooting lifted the Bruins as well, connecting for three three-pointers and finishing with 9 points.
Defensively, CU generated timely stops and converted turnovers into opportunities, scoring 15 points off Alice Lloyd's 16 turnovers.
Following the win, Head Coach Jacob Heck emphasized the importance of Tuesday's performance:
"It was big for us to get a win against a conference opponent tonight. It was not always pretty, but we have been preaching tough and gritty, which we saw tonight. The whole staff is proud of this group for battling through the tough early games, and we think we are starting to turn the corner at just the right time."
The victory moves Carolina to 3–8 overall and 1–0 in CAC play, giving the Bruins momentum as they enter a brief break in their schedule.
Carolina University Men's Basketball is off for a week before returning to action on Tuesday, December 16, traveling to Montreat College for a 5 p.m. tipoff.
