FRANKLIN SPRINGS, GA – The Emmanuel Men's Basketball team hosted Belmont Abbey College this afternoon on senior day. In what was KJ Jones II's final game in the Shaw Athletic Center, the senior put on a show with 32 points and helped the Lions defeat Belmont Abbey, 79-61. With the win, the Lions improve to 23-5 on the season and 15-2 in conference play.
 
In the first half, the Lions played well defensively, holding the Crusaders to 20 points (29% shooting) On offense, the Lions got into a rhythm early, going 13-33 from the field and 5-7 from the foul line. The Lions would lead by as much as 16 in the half and led 35-20 at the half. 
 
After the break, the Lions continued to click on offense. Emmanuel was 18-29 (62%) from the field and made 4 of 5 free throw attempts. The Crusaders would get within 9 points of the lead midway through the half, but the Lions responded well. KJ Jones led the Lions with 16 of his 32 points in the half. Emmanuel would lead by as much as 22 in the half and would take the win with a final score of 78-61. 
 
Four Lions ended the night in double figures scoring. KJ Jones II led the way with 32 points, 6 rebounds, 4 assists, 2 steals and a block. Kendall Latney contributed 18 points, 7 rebounds and 3 assists, while Chris Dees added 12 points, 4 rebounds and 4 assists. Tavarus Webb led the Lions in rebounds with 8 and scored 10 points on the night with 3 assists.
 
Next up the Lions will travel to Central, SC to take on Southern Wesleyan for their final regular season game. 
 
For more information on Emmanuel University athletics, visit goeulions.com.