Lenoir-Rhyne Dominates Wingate in 89-75 Victory, Sets Up Showdown with Mars Hill
Lenoir-Rhyne secured a decisive 89-75 victory over Wingate at Cuddy Arena in Wingate, North Carolina, fueled by a stellar defensive first half and a balanced offensive attack. The Bears now prepare for their final home game of 2025 against Mars Hill on Saturday, December 20th, with tip-off scheduled for 4:00 p.m.
Strong Start Propels Bears to Victory
The Bears established control early, holding the Bulldogs to a mere two points in the first seven minutes, building a 7-2 lead. This defensive intensity continued throughout the half, with key plays like a Julian Dozier-to-Akili Evans alley-oop extending the lead to 19-7. Rogelio Rivera’s back-to-back three-pointers before halftime further solidified the Bears’ dominance, resulting in a commanding 49-24 lead at the break. According to game reports, Lenoir-Rhyne shot an impressive 16-for-25 (64.0%) from the field and 6-for-11 (54.5%) from beyond the arc in the first half.
Second Half Maintains Momentum
Lenoir-Rhyne continued to build on their lead in the second half. Tyler Burraston’s early three-pointer extended the advantage to 21. While Wingate attempted a comeback, highlighted by a Kendall Campbell dunk that narrowed the deficit to 72-61, the Bears responded with continued offensive pressure. Akili Evans sealed the victory with a late dunk, solidifying the 89-75 final score.
Key Stats and Performances
Junior Hodnett led the Bears in scoring with 18 points, while Blessin Kimble contributed 14 points and, alongside Conrad Luczynski, combined for 16 rebounds and three blocks. The Bears finished the game shooting 31-for-48 (64.8%) from the field and 10-for-18 (55.6%) from three-point range. Wingate struggled with their shooting, managing only 25-for-63 (39.7%) from the field and 6-for-25 (24.0%) from beyond the arc. Amarion Savage led the team with nine assists, and Hodnett recorded three steals.
Series History and Notable Achievements
This contest marked the 81st meeting between Lenoir-Rhyne and Wingate, with the Bears now leading the all-time series 48-33. Hodnett matched his season-high of 18 points for the second consecutive game. The Bears also connected on at least 10 three-pointers for the third time this season. Furthermore, Conrad Luczynski has generated at least three blocks in six straight games, demonstrating consistent defensive prowess. Savage’s nine assists represent a season-high for a Bears player. Notably, Lenoir-Rhyne has secured back-to-back wins at Wingate for the first time since the 2017-18 seasons. Wingate’s 24 first-half points represent the fewest points the Bears have allowed in a half this season.
Looking Ahead to Mars Hill and Honoring a Legacy
Lenoir-Rhyne will return to Shuford Arena for their final home game of 2025 against Mars Hill on Saturday. The Lions are coming off a 77-60 loss to Tusculum. Tip-off is scheduled for 4:00 p.m., and both the men’s and women’s games will be free to attend. The weekend will also include a celebration of life for John Lentz on Sunday, inviting all Bears basketball alumni to participate. .
