FRANKLIN SPRINGS, GA - The men's basketball team knocked down #16 UNC Pembroke on Tuesday night. The 82-72 victory moves Emmanuel's record to 3-1 (2-0 CC). 

The game began with a back and forth exchange until the Lions clawed their way into a six point lead, 18-12. Emmanuel held a marginal lead for the next ten minutes, but Pembroke hung close behind. With less than two minutes until the break, the Braves tied the score at 32. They finished the half on an 11-2 run that put the Lions at a one possession deficit after 20 minutes, 34-37. 

The first six minutes of the second half saw an even fight continue as neither team could pull away. With the score tied at 49, a burst of momentum for Emmanuel gave them seven straight points. Fast breaks and forced turnovers contributed to the streak, but the Braves were quick to respond. The Lions led by only two with two minutes left, 68-66. However, another run got the crowd on their feet as hot shooting and clutch free throws propelled Emmanuel to a double-digit lead with just under a minute remaining, 76-66. The Braves began intentional fouling, but six consecutive free throws by sophomore KJ Jones II put the game away for the Lions as they went on to win by ten, 82-72. 

KJ Jones II led the way for the Lions, putting up 29 to push his career total over 1,000. The milestone comes in just his third season at Emmanuel, and is even more impressive considering the limited schedule played in the 2020-21 season due to the pandemic. Jones also recorded 8 boards, 6 assists, and 2 steals. Senior Brandon Simpson followed with 11 points, 6 rebounds, and a pair of assists. 

Next up, men's basketball will be on the road for five consecutive games, beginning with a trip to Due West to face Erskine on Tuesday, November 30 at 7:00pm. 

For more on Emmanuel College athletics, visit goeclions.