SMC Men's Basketball Falls to Morris, 86-82

Sumter, S.C. –  A stretch of eight-consecutive points propelled host Morris College to an 86-82 win over the Spartanburg Methodist College.

The Hornets erased a 79-75 deficit and scored eight-straight to regain the lead on its way to the win.

The Pioneers (9-15) were led in scoring by Bryan Bayonne, who had a game-high 26 points on the strength of five 3-pointers. Tavarez Lacey recorded a double double with 17 points and 10 rebounds, plus Isaac Gray added 11 in the loss.

Morris was led by Darjawuan Brown, who had 21 points to lead three Hornets in double figures. Rashad Simmons and Desmond Glover had 18 and 11 points, respectively.

SMC stretched its lead to four, 79-75, when Gray made one of two free throws with 3:01 left in the game. The Hornets on the ensuing possession cut into the lead when Zion Green made a layup. Then, a steal by Brown set up a layup by Paul Walthall Jr. tied the contest at 79 with 1:56 to go. Four-straight points by Brown put the home team back in front.

SMC mounted a comeback when Bayonne hit a 3-pointer with :12 to go. Morris sealed the win, making three of its four final free throws.

Next, SMC will host Clinton College on Monday, Feb. 24 at 4 p.m.