Franklin Springs, GA – The Emmanuel Men's Basketball team hosted Young Harris tonight in conference action. The contest was a defensive battle, as advertised, with ten lead changes and three ties. The Mountain Lions took a 9-point lead into the half, but the Lions roared back to earn a 65-63 victory. With the win, the Lions improve to 4-4 on the season and remain perfect in conference play. 

The Mountain Lions jumped out to a 7-2 lead, but the Lions would answer back to take a 12-9 lead on a made three pointer by Chris Dees. In the first half, the Lions were 14-27 from the field (51%) and 6-11 from three-point range. The teams would trade points until the Mountain Lions went on a run in the final six minutes of the half to take a nine-point lead into the half, 38-29. 

After the break, Young Harris would extend their lead to 11 points early, but the Lions would respond with a 11-0 run including back-to-back threes by Dees and a key jumpers by Tavarus Webb and Kendall Latney to give the Lions a 48-47. The Lions would extend their lead to 60-54 with 4:41 to play on a layup by Devin Story. The Lions shot 60% from the field in the second half (15-25) and made 3-5 free throws. The Mountain Lions would keep it close, but the Lions would hold on to earn the 65-63 win. 

Three Lions ended the night in double digits, with Chris Dees leading the way with 17 points and 4 rebounds. Tavarus "Spudd" Webb contributed 16 points and 5 rebounds on the night, while Kendall Latney added 11 points and 6 rebounds.

Next up, the Lions will travel to Bristol, TN to face King University in conference action on Saturday at 4:30PM. 

For more information on Emmanuel University athletics, visit goeulions.com.