FRANKLIN SPRINGS, GA – The Emmanuel Men's Basketball team hosted Converse University this afternoon in Conference action. The Lions got out to a quick start and controlled the pace of the game, behind a 27-point night from Chris Dees. The Lions earned a 97-69 victory to move to 11-7 overall on the season and 9-1 in conference play.
 
The Lions jumped out to an 8-0 lead early in the 1^st half behind back-to-back threes by Chris Dees. The Lions continued to control the pace of the half, increasing their lead to 21-6 with 13:14 to play in the 1^st. Midway through the half, the Valkyries cut into the Lions lead to make it 32-24 with 5:39 to play, but the Lions responded well with a made three pointer by Tavarus Webb. With 3:03 to play, Converse got within six points of the lead, 37-31, but the Lions responded with a 9-0 run to end the half leading 46-31. In the half, the Lions shot 53% from the field, connecting on 8-10 from the foul line.
 
After the break, the Lions continued their momentum from the first half.  Chris Dees picked up with he left off with another made three to give the Lions a 15-point lead, 49-34. A bucket from Kendall Latney pushed the Lions lead to 20 points with 16:33 to play in the contest. Emmanuel controlled the pace of the second half, shooting 53% from the field and connecting on 8-17 from three-point range. The Lions would go on a run late in the game to push their lead to 30 points on a jumper by Micah Roebuck to make it 92-62. The Lions would close out the game strong to earn a 97-69 victory. 
 
Three Lions ended the night in double figures, with Chris Dees leading the way with 27 points, 5 rebounds and 3 assists. Dees was 7-10 from three-point range and picked up 2 steals. Kendall Latney contributed 19 points on the night with 3 assists, while Tavarus Webb added 17 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists.
 
The Lions will be back in action on Saturday as they host Lees McRae at 4PM. For more information on Emmanuel University athletics, visit goeulions.com.