CONWAY, Ark. -- The Golden Eagles raced out to an 18-9 lead, hitting seven of its first 10 shots from the floor, but a lopsided end to the first half dug too big a hole for the visitors as the John Brown University men's basketball team fell 70-48 at Central Baptist (Ark.) on Saturday afternoon (Nov. 5) inside the Reddin Fieldhouse.
Senior Payton Guiot scored eight of John Brown's first 18 points in the opening 7:13 of the game, building an early nine-point advantage for the visitors. That lead continued, 24-17, until senior Tyren Collin's dunk at the 7:46 mark of the first half when the host Mustangs (3-0) rallied on an 18-0 run over the next 6:30, reversing the advantage to CBC. Armed with 33-26 lead at the half, the rally finally ended with another Collins dunk with 20 seconds remaining prior to the intermission.
John Brown (2-2) shot just 2-of-14 from deep in the second half, 10-of-30 overall (33.3 percent), as the Central Baptist lead ballooned to 22 in the final minute of the contest.
"This was a tough one for us today, on the road and playing in our third game of the week," head coach Jason Beschta admitted. "I think the wear showed as we looked a little tired and not making some of the hustle plays we have been making in our previous games.
"Central Baptist certainly had something to do with it as they really did a good job of pressuring us and making things difficult. Playing against teams like our last two opponents are really good for preparing us for what is to come in the Sooner Athletic this season and helps reveal to us areas that need attention. I'm really proud though of the way our team has responded to this tough week."
The visitors were out-rebounded, 40-31, and received only 10 bench points while the Mustangs earned 25 from its reserves.
Collins led the Golden Eagles with 14 points, on 7-of-9 shooting, six rebounds and a pair of steals. Freshman Malachi Reeves contributed seven points and seven boards in the loss.
The Golden Eagles will return to the hardwood on Wednesday evening (Nov. 9) as JBU completes its home-and-home series with Philander Smith in Little Rock. Tip-off from Mims Gymnasium is scheduled for 7 p.m.
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