HICKORY, N.C. – The Chowan University men's basketball team opened the season on Friday evening at the annual Southeast Region Crossover, taking on tournament host Lenoir-Rhyne University at Shuford Arena. The Bears built a 17-point halftime advantage, but the Hawks responded with a strong second-half performance, outscoring Lenoir-Rhyne 50-49 after the break. Chowan cut the deficit to seven points late in the contest, but the Bears maintained their lead to secure the 101-85 victory.
The Hawks came out strong early, with Markell Hollis leading the offensive effort, to help the Hawks stay within three points, 11-14, midway through the half. Lenoir-Rhyne would create separation as the half progressed, extending their advantage to 20 points for a 52-35 headed into the break.
Chowan came out of halftime making a push, as Israel Powell, Jordan Clayton, Damerius Summers, and Joseph Lezeau II helped chip away at the Bear lead. The Hawks would bring the game within seven points at 75-82 with just over five minutes remaining. Lenoir-Rhyne would hang on to close out the game 101-85.
Hollis, Powell, Summers, Clayton, and Lezeau would all end the night in doubles figures.
THE BASICS
Records: Chowan (0-1, 0-0 Conference Carolinas), Lenoir-Rhyne (2-0, 0-0 SAC)
Final Score: Chowan 85, Lenoir-Rhyne 101
Location: Hickory, N.C. (Shuford Arena)
INSIDE THE BOX SCORE
Markell Hollis led the Hawks with 23 points, shooting 9-of-16 from the floor while adding five rebounds, four blocks, and a steal. Israel Powell got to work coming in as sixth man with 17 points, going 8-of-16 from the field.
Damerius Summers added 13 points, converting all nine of his free-throw attempts, grabbing five rebounds, and a block, while Jordan Clayton and Joseph Lezeau II each finished with 10 points. Clayton also collected five rebounds and dished out three assists, as Lezeau had two assists, a block, and rebound. Damien Robinson recorded five points going 2-for-2 from the field and knocking down a free throw. Robinson would also grab five rebounds, two blocks, and a steal.
Chowan shot 45.6 percent from the field, including 53.1 percent in the second half, and converted 20-of-29 attempts at the free-throw line. The Hawks finished with 38 rebounds, 14 assists, and nine blocks while collecting 24 points from the bench.
UP NEXT
The Hawks focus their attention to day two of the Southeast Region Crossover facing Tusculum University at 2:00 PM in Shuford Arena in Hickory, N.C.
