HARTSVILLE, S.C. – Julian Nelson poured in 30 points for the Cobras in their 67-58 loss to Lenoir-Rhyne in South Atlantic Conference men's basketball action Wednesday (Feb. 5) night.
Coker took an early 14-8 lead six minutes into the game, but the Bears quickly responded taking a 19-16 lead with just under 10 minutes left in the half. The Cobras took the lead once again, 23-19, with 6:20 left in the half. However, L-R used a 12-1 run to close out the first stanza with a 31-24 lead.
In the second half the Cobras came out of the locker room ready to battle, and they quickly erased the Bears lead. With an Nelson alley-oop dunk and a lay-up by Errick Bethel, Coker tied the game at 40 with 12 minutes left. A 12-3 run by L-R over the next five minutes gave the Bears a nine-point advantage, 52-43. The Cobras cut the lead to just five points, 56-51, with three minutes left, but L-R would use a late run to secure the win at 67-58.
In addition to Nelson's game-high 30 points, Larry Felder earned a double-double with 10 points and 10 rebounds for the Cobras, while Bethel chipped in 13 points off the bench.
Coker will return to the hardwood on Saturday (Feb. 8) for a home game against Mars Hill. Tip-off is scheduled for 4 p.m. following the women's game at 2 p.m.
McDonald's Player of the Game – Julian Nelson
