Men's Basketball team holds its own in first half against NCAA DI Virginia Military Institute

LEXINGTON, Va. --- Carlow University men's basketball started off strong against NCAA DI Virginia Military Institute but ran out of steam in a 106-67 loss Wednesday night.

LEXINGTON, Va. --- Carlow University men's basketball started off strong against NCAA DI Virginia Military Institute but ran out of steam in a 106-67 loss Wednesday night.

The Celtics (1-14) led by one point two separate times during the first six minutes of action and kept the game close through the majority of the first half.

Byron Gaskins gave Carlow its first lead after sinking a three-pointer one minute after tip-off.

Carlow kept up with the Keydets (4-6) until Troy Frantz landed a trey and scored a layup during the next possession to give Carlow its second lead of the game.

VMI attempted to pull away once again, but Nehemiah Brazil grabbed a rebound and launched the ball down the floor to Brevan Williams, who tied the score, 20-all, at the 11-minute mark.

The Keydets called a timeout and quickly gained momentum after taking the court.

It was the last time the Celtics would have the Keydets within reach, as VMI went on an 11-1 run to lead, 51-34, at the half.

VMI went on its best scoring run of the game – a 12-0 stint – three minutes into the second half.

Carlow would not allow the Keydets another big run, but VMI steadily pulled away throughout the half.

VMI scored 13 of its eventual 20 three-pointers in the second half alone – five of which they drained during the final five minutes of action.

Hunter DeStefano sank four three-pointers to lead the Celtics with 16 points.

Brazil landed three treys to score 14 points. He pulled down seven rebounds, dished out five assists and picked up three steals on the night.

Williams also tallied three treys and scored 15 points off the bench.

Isaiah Stein added two three-pointers and recorded three blocks in the effort.

VMI out-rebounded the Celtics, 55-27, and Devin Butler led all scorers with 25 points after landing seven of the Keydets' 20 three-pointers.

The Celtics host the University of Rio Grande (Ohio) Saturday, Dec. 10 for a 3 p.m. River States Conference game.