The Bellarmine men’s basketball team will embark on a crucial road trip this week, as they face off against the North Alabama Lions in a fierce battle for ASUN Conference dominance. The Knights, who hold a 4-0 edge in the all-time series, are led by redshirt senior Garrett Tipton and graduate student Juston Betz. Betz, in particular, will be a key player to watch, as he averaged 10.5 points and 9.5 rebounds in last year’s two victories over the Lions. The Knights will also rely on the contributions of several newcomers, including freshman Peter Suder and redshirt freshman Ben Johnson, who has been a standout performer with an average of 16.6 points per game over the last six contests.
But the Knights will have their work cut out for them, as the Lions come into the game with a strong 9-5 record and a victory in their ASUN opener over defending champion Jacksonville State. The Lions’ KJ Johnson, Will Soucie, and Daniel Ortiz will be key players to watch, as they combined for 45 of the Lions’ 66 points in that game. Freshman Jacari Lane has also been a standout performer for the Lions, earning ASUN Newcomer of the Week honors on Dec. 26.
The Knights and Lions will clash on Monday, Jan. 2 at 7 p.m. (6 p.m. CT) in Flowers Hall, and the outcome of this highly-anticipated matchup could set the stage for the rest of the ASUN Conference season. Will the Knights be able to defend their all-time series lead, or will the Lions emerge victorious on their home turf? Stay tuned to find out.
