Box Score CHARLOTTE -- The Johnson C. Smith University men's basketball team opened the 2023-24 season with a 81-72 victory against Belmont Abbey inside Brayboy Gym on Tuesday night.
The Golden Bulls (1-0) had three players score in double figures, led by Ezekiel Cannedy, who scored a game-high 21 points and four assists. Avery Huggins added 18 points and Asa White added eight points and eight rebounds.
 
How It Happened
JCSU struggled out of the gate, falling behind 41-31 heading into halftime.
 
After a stern halftime pep talk from Head Coach Stephen Joyner, Sr., the Golden Bulls exploded in the second half going on a 21-2 run, leading 52-43. JCSU got a boost from its bench in the second half to extended its lead 69-52, as non-starters accounted for 38 points.
 
Wade Jackson led Belmont Abbey with 30 points. he Crusaders fall to 1-2.
 
Game Notes
JCSU cleaned up on the offensive glass, collecting eight offensive boards in the game, but grabbed 23 on the defensive end.