JEFFERSON CITY, TN – UVA Wise turned in a dominating performance against King University Sunday afternoon in their final game of the SAC vs. Conference Carolinas Challenge, defeating the Tornado 110-72. Six Cavalier players scored in double figures in the win.
The 110 points were the most since a 121-115 triple-overtime win at Tusculum last season. The last time the Cavs scored 110 or more in regulation was 112 against VU-Lynchburg on January 7, 2023.
INSIDE THE MATCHUP
Result: UVA Wise 110, King 72
Records: UVA Wise (3-1); King (0-2)
Location: Jefferson City, TN | Holt Fieldhouse
HOW IT HAPPENED
- UVA Wise started strong, with
Evan Ramsey scoring a layup at 19:33, assisted by
Patrick Shelley. The home extended their lead with
Kam Roberts contributing a layup at 19:07, again assisted by Shelley, putting the Cavs ahead early on.
Yoro Diallo's defensive rebound at 17:19 led to another layup by Ramsey to make the score 11-4. As the half progressed, the Highland Cavaliers' shooting from beyond the arc was effective, with
Calen Lightford and Shelley each hitting 3-pointers. The team continued to exert pressure, with Diallo adding a 3-pointer at 7:57 and Lightford connecting twice from long range, expanding the advantage. Despite the Tornado attempting to close the gap, the Cavs' balanced attack and strong defensive rebounding kept King at bay. The half concluded with UVA Wise holding a commanding 53–33 lead.
-UVA Wise maintained a commanding presence throughout the second half, showcasing a strong offensive display. King cut the lead to 24 with just under 16 minutes remaining, but the Cavs had answer, connecting on multiple jumpers and a three-pointer to further extending the lead. The team capitalized on fast-break opportunities, with
Cy Hardy and
Hensley Ward each converting dunks, bolstering the lead to 74–42 midway through the half. The Cavaliers continued to apply pressure on defense, forcing turnovers and securing rebounds.
Max Lidman and
Anderson Cummins added to the scoring with successful three-pointers. They surpassed the century mark with 5:25 remaining. The game concluded with a tip-in by
Cole Caywood, closing the score at 110–72.
GETTING WISE
- Roberts led the team with a game-high 20 points off of 8-13 shooting from the field. He also had seven rebounds
- Diallo scored 11 points and also had 14 rebounds for his fourth consecutive double-double. He also grabbed two steals.
- Lightford chipped in 14 points, including four three-pointers, and dished out three assists.
- Hardy added 12 points and also had four steals and five assists.
- Ramsey scored five points, had three blocks, and dished out four assists.
- The team shot 52.9 percent from the field, 38.5 percent from three-point range, and 83.3 percent from the free throw line.
- Lenier Pockett led the Tornado with 18 points and ten rebounds.
UP NEXT
The Cavs will have their home opener when they host Young Harris on Wednesday, Nov. 19 at The Quillen Court in the David J. Prior Convocation Center. This is the first meeting between the two since the 2022-23 season. Tip off is set for 6 p.m.