Ronald Thornhill had a team-high 18 points, including 5-of-14 shooting from the 3-pt line in the 77-64 loss to Campbell
Box Score vs. Campbell
Buies Creek, NC – The Johnson C. Smith University men's basketball team fell to Campbell University 77-64 on Monday evening inside Pope Center/Gore Arena on the campus of Campbell. JCSU slides to 2-3 after a tough 0-3 road stretch, while the Fighting Camels improve to 4-3.
The Golden Bulls got off to a slow start and fell behind 9-2 six minutes into the contest. With a little less than two minutes remaining before the half, JCSU faced a 40-24 deficit. Back to back three pointers from senior guard and reigning CIAA Player of the Week
Ronald Thornhill (Alberta, VA) and junior guard
James Otey (Roanoke, VA) quickly cut into Campbell's lead.
Senior center
Earl Jackson (Temple Hills, MD) had a continuation three-point play after scoring and being fouled. Jackson hit the free throw for the final score of the half. Campbell held a 40-33 lead at the break. Both teams shot 50% in the first half; JCSU (12-24) and Campbell (17-34). The Fighting Camels outscored J.C. Smith 24-10 inside the paint, 15-9 off turnovers, and 9-2 in second chance points. Thornhill had 12 points off 4-of-7 shooting, including 3-of-6 from the three point line.
Campbell grew their advantage to as much as 18 points midway through the second half. The Golden Bulls trailed by double digits for the majority of the second period and never held the lead in the contest.
Johnson C. Smith shot just 27% in the second half (10-37), despite a flawless night at the free throw line (9-9). Overall Campbell outscored JCSU 40-16 inside the paint and 10-2 in fast breaks. The Golden Bulls narrowly won the battle on the boards 37-35.
Thornhill led the team in scoring with 18 points and three assists. Otey produced 14 points with two assists and two steals. Freshman forward
Antwan Wilkerson (Greensboro, NC) and junior forward
Michael Cooper (New Rochelle, NY) each had eight points
Lorne Merthie had a game-high 23 points with eight assists, followed by Marvelle Harris with 16 points, eight rebounds, and four blocks. Junard Hartley had a unique double-double of 12 points and 12 assists.
The Golden Bulls return to their home court of Brayboy Gymnasium to face Belmont Abbey College on Saturday, December 4th. Tip-off is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. JCSU is 2-0 at home this season.
