DUE WEST, S.C. - The Emmanuel College men's basketball team defeated conference opponent Erskine College, 58-56 on Tuesday night. This win brings the Lions record to 18-6 overall, 11-0 conference.

The Lions wasted no time taking the lead with a dominant first half. Sophomore Brandon Simpson pitched in 11 points while Senior Derek Vandiver put down two three-pointers to extend the Lions lead to 34-23 by halftime.

Upon returning from halftime, the Lions continued to dominate the court. Emmanuel put down another 7 points to the Fleet's 3, grabbing their biggest lead of the night at 41-26. Despite the Lions success throughout the game, Erskine suddenly began to change the pace. The Flying Fleet found success at the net and began outscoring Emmanuel, rapidly dwindling their lead. With just 22 seconds left on the clock, Erskine found themselves trailing by just 2 points. Senior Colvin Kendrick put another point on the board with one successful free throw, but the Fleet's Jordan Watson retuned with a jump shot, bringing the Lions lead down to just one point. With 5 seconds left on the clock, Senior Austin Greene stepped up to the free throw line, going one for two. The clock would then expire with Emmanuel on top, 58-56.

Next up, the Lions will take on conference opponent Belmont Abbey on the road, Saturday, January 2nd.

For more news on Emmanuel College Athletics, visit goeclions.com.