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Christian Brothers University Athletics

MBB2425 CT
Pastor Arkoh, Photographer
69
Winner Lee Lee 7-8,3-8 Gulf South
66
Christian Brothers CB 7-10,3-8 Gulf South
Winner
Lee Lee
7-8,3-8 Gulf South
69
Final
66
Christian Brothers CB
7-10,3-8 Gulf South
Score By Periods
Team 1 2 F
Lee Lee 42 27 69
Christian Brothers CB 23 43 66

Game Recap: Men's Basketball | | James Garcia, Assistant Director of Athletics for Communications

CBU's spirited comeback falls just short against Lee

MEMPHIS, Tenn. – Christian Brothers men's basketball (7-10, 3-8 GSC) hosted the Lee University Flames (7-8, 3-8 GSC) at Canale Arena on Saturday. What started as a lopsided affair turned into a thrilling second-half comeback, but the Buccaneers fell just short, 69-66. This Gulf South Conference game showcased resilience from Christian Brothers, even in defeat, as they nearly overcame a 19-point halftime deficit.
 
 

First Half: Early Struggles

Christian Brothers began the game on the back foot, struggling to match Lee's offensive efficiency. The Flames took control early, leveraging sharp three-point shooting (58.3 percent in the first half), going 7-of-12 from beyond the arc. Zach Gray of Lee led the charge with 12 points, including several critical buckets that extended their lead. By halftime, Lee had built a commanding 42-23 lead, thanks to a balanced scoring attack and superior shooting.

In contrast, the Buccaneers struggled mightily from the field, shooting just 27.6 percent in the first half, including just 1-of-13 from beyond the arc. While Christian Thompson provided a strong presence on the boards with six rebounds by halftime, the team's offensive inefficiency allowed Lee to maintain a comfortable cushion.
 
 

Second Half: A Spirited Comeback

The Buccaneers came alive in the second half, fueled by standout performances from key players. Christian Thompson, the game's standout performer, was dominant in the paint, finishing with 22 points and 17 rebounds. His relentless energy on the boards created second-chance opportunities, which proved crucial during Christian Brothers' 12-0 scoring run on the other side of the midway point of the half.

Tane Kirisome was instrumental in sparking the comeback, scoring 13 of his 18 points in the second half, including three clutch three-pointers. The Buccaneers improved their shooting dramatically, hitting 48.4 percent from the field and converting on 90.9 percent of their free throws in the second half. Their defense tightened as well, limiting Lee to 37.5 percent shooting from the floor.

Despite their resurgence, the Buccaneers could not overcome the early deficit. A quick 4-0 spurt and a timely defensive stand by Lee sealed the victory in the final minutes.
 
 

Key Performances

  • Christian Thompson: Dominated with 22 points, 17 rebounds, including 13 offensive boards, and two blocks, keeping the Buccaneers competitive throughout.
  • Tane Kirisome: Scored 18 points, providing a much-needed offensive spark in the second half.
  • Allen Hughes: Dished out a game-high seven assists while chipping in 12 points.
 
 

Statistical Insights

  • Points in the Paint: Christian Brothers outscored Lee 36-30, showing their strength inside.
  • Second-Chance Points: CBU capitalized on offensive rebounds, scoring 15 second-chance points compared to Lee's 12.
  • Fast Break Points: The Buccaneers' 14 fast break points far outpaced Lee's 6, a testament to their transition game in the second half.
  • Three-Point Shooting: Christian Brothers shot just 4-of-22 (18.2 percent) from beyond the arc, a stark contrast to Lee's efficient 50 percent (10-of-20).
 
 

Turning Points

  • Lee's Dominance in the First Half: Lee's 19-point lead at halftime stemmed from their efficient three-point shooting and ability to capitalize on turnovers.
  • Christian Brothers' Second-Half Surge: The Buccaneers cut Lee's lead to single digits with a 12-0 scoring run, fueled by their improved shooting and defensive intensity.
  • Final Minute Execution: Down by three points in the closing seconds, Christian Brothers had opportunities but could not convert, allowing Lee to escape with the win.
 
 

Conclusion

While Christian Brothers fell short, their performance in the second half demonstrated their potential and resilience. Christian Thompson's standout effort and the team's ability to adjust after halftime are promising signs for the remainder of the season. Their next matchup will be a pivotal opportunity to rebound and build on the momentum they generated in the second half.
 
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