MARS HILL, N.C. – Anderson University Men's Basketball improves to 19-1 overall and 13-1 in conference play after defeating conference opponent Mars Hill in a 75-66 victory on the road Friday afternoon.
 
"Wasn't always perfect but it was done our way." said Head Coach Jimmie Williams.
 
The first half saw steady back-and-forth action with neither team gaining separation. The lead changed hand throughout before Anderson took charge with six minutes left in the opening half. The Black and Gold remained steady with a 10-point edge over Mars Hill with many attempts by the Lions to close the gap during the final half of the contest.
 
"Tough, gritty and unselfish." added Williams. Credit Mars Hill for staying in it. I thought there was a few times we could've done a great job at finishing it, but they kept coming. Coach KT has done a great job with his team. Proud of our bend but don't break effort in both wins on the road this week. It's not always going to be pretty. This is a great league. Today was proof around the league, winning on the road is a battle."
 
Freshman Rashawn Inglemon (Sacramento, Calif.) led the Trojans with 24 points on the night, shooting 66.6% from the floor, 71.4% from the arc, 100% from the line while also adding one block and two steals to Anderson's final tally.
 
Junior Osmar Garcia-Araujo (Sugar Hill, Ga.) posted 21 points while shooting 83.3% overall and 84.6% from the charity stripe. On the court, he anchored the team defensively, tallying four rebounds, two blocks and two steals. Senior Malachai Reeves (Lexington, S.C.) rounded out Anderson's double-digit scorers with 11 points and a 60% free throw percentage.
 
"Proud that we brought the effort necessary to get a win today. Caleb McAbee, wow. What a week from him. He was huge at Wingate and again tonight. Teams continue to focus on stopping one or two of our guys and we continue to have multiple people step up."
 
Although the Lions took the lead in many statistical categories, the Trojan's shot 80.6% from the line and recorded 16 points off turnovers with 19 fast break points.
 
"They love playing together and it was evident today. Thankful we were able to get it in before the snow. Be safe out there, Trojan Army. I'll be sledding tomorrow afternoon with my kids behind Rainey Fine Arts building if anyone wants to join! I love this team!"
 
The Black and Gold return home on Wednesday, Feb. 4 when they host conference opponent Newberry for their second matchup of the season. The game is slated for 7:30 p.m. in Abney Athletic Center.