Bruins blowout Owls in conference opener

After only six games, the Belmont Bruins nearly accomplished something they never did in last year’s conference championship season – score 100 points.

The Bruins blasted the Kennesaw State Owls in their conference opener, extending the team’s 18-game home winning streak with a 98-52 win Thursday night.

Despite the imbalance the 48-point win might suggest, there was balance with the Bruins, as five players scored more than ten points on the night.

It’s the type of win head coach Rick Byrd hopes to see more of this season, even though he told his players this win does help them beyond tonight.

“Tonight was a good night, but it’s just one win. Saturday afternoon, we could be 1-1 if we don’t play well,” he said.

The Bruins definitely played well during this game. Belmont started on an 11-0 run and never looked back, taking a 48-31 lead at halftime. The Bruins hit 10 three-pointers and shot 51.5 percent overall from the field.

“Shots started going in early,” Byrd said. “I think that gets a little infectious in your team.”

By the end of the night, the team made 37 baskets. including 15 threes. J.J. Mann led the scoring with 17 points. Drew Hanlen, Kerron Johnson, Scott Saunders, and Brandon Baker all scored in double digits for the game.

Kennesaw State guard and conference preseason player of the year Markieth Cummings led all players in scoring with 19 points for the Owls.

The Bruins will continue their homestand against the Mercer Bears Saturday afternoon at 4:15 p.m.

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