FRANKLIN SPRINGS, GA – The #4 ranked Emmanuel Men's Basketball team hosted #3 USC Aiken tonight in the Lions home opener of the 2023-24 season.  This matchup was as advertised, with multiple ties and lead changes. Ultimately, the Pacers did just enough to come away with a thrilling victory edging the Lions, 67-65.  With the loss, Emmanuel fell to 5-2 on the season. 
 
The Lions got off to a slow start offensively, getting down 11-2 early. They got into a rhythm behind hot shooting from junior, Chris Dees and redshirt sophomore, Spudd Webb who led the way with 7 points apiece. The Lions shot 11-29 from the field (37.9%) and 6-14 from beyond the arc (42.9%). Junior, Jasper Gibson contributed 6 points and was 2-3 from three, including a critical jumper with a second remaining in the half to tie things up at 30. 
 
The second half saw 6 ties and 9 lead changes. The Pacers led by as much as 9 with 12:37 remaining. The Lions were 11-27 from the field (40.7%) and 2-8 from beyond the arc. Senior, KJ Jones II led the way in scoring with 11 points in the half, with Spudd Webb contributing 8, and Chris Dees adding 7. In the end, the Pacers got off one more shot than Emmanuel to take the the victory in thrilling fashion, 67-65. 
 
Overall, KJ Jones II led the Lions in scoring on the night with 16 points, 4 assists, and 4 rebounds. Spudd Webb added 15 points and 4 rebounds and Chris Dees contributed 14 points and 6 boards. 
 
Next up for the Lions will be a Conference Carolinas matchup at Converse University on Saturday at 4PM. 
 
For more information on Emmanuel University athletics, visit goeulions.com.