NEED TO KNOW:
Score: Asbury 68, Piedmont 65
Records: Piedmont, 7-5; Asbury 3-10

WILMORE, KY - The Piedmont men's basketball team fell in a defensive battle against the Asbury Eagles to open conference play by a final score of 68-65.

With both teams coming off good offensive performances in their last outings, they looked to do the same in this contest, but it was not to be. They did bring their defenses to play however, as the game stayed close throughout. 

Asbury would secure the lead first as they forced Piedmont onto the back foot throughout the first half. The Eagles shot well from three, building their lead, and with eight minutes remaining in the half, the Lions trailed by ten. Looking to get back into striking distance, freshman Parker Renault led a charge, including two strong layups, to bring the game within three at a 32-29 score.

While both squads hurt in the offensive category, the Lions felt the brunt of the pain, shooting just 1-7 from beyond the arc and 11-26 from the field in the first half. Piedmont stayed alive with tough play in the paint, drawing several trips to the free throw line in the first half. Parker Renault led scorers for the Lions at the half with six, while Israel Hall and Dylan Patrick held five points apiece.

When play resumed for the second half, the Lions would come out hot with a few shots to give them the lead, but the Eagles clawed right back, and the two teams exchanged the lead for the opening minutes of the half. It was here the Lions continued to use the free throw line to their advantage, as 11 of their points in the half came from the charity stripe. 

It would be close down the stretch as Patrick and Hall kept Piedmont moving. Down by three with 20 seconds remaining, the Lions held the ball and looked for a three-pointer. Fisher Darden and Israel Hall found open shots but unfortunately could not find the bottom of the bucket as the Eagles would escape with the victory.

Although it was a tough day for the offense, the Lions found ways to remain competitive throughout the contest and fought until the end.

Piedmont will be back in action as they return to Cave Arena on Jan. 6th at 7:00 p.m. against the Warren Wilson Owls.

TURNING POINT:
- A pair of free throws by the Eagles in the final seconds that forced the Lions to go beyond the arc. 

HOW TO FOLLOW:
- To stay up to date on all information regarding Piedmont University Athletics, be sure to visit PiedmontLions.com and connect with the Green and Gold on social media. Follow the Lions on X @PiedmontLions, Instagram: @PiedmontLions, and Facebook.