HARRISONBURG, Va. – The Royals kicked off the spring semester on Wednesday, while also welcoming in the Marlins of Virginia Wesleyan for a mid-week ODAC matchup.

EMU trailed by just two at the half, but VWU was able to use a big second half to pick up a 71-54 win.

Records: EMU 5-10, 1-6 ODAC | Virginia Wesleyan 12-3, 4-3 ODAC

Highlights

First Half

EMU took an early 10-2 lead off four points from Landon Swingler and a pair of threes from Julien Hagerman. Virginia Wesleyan was able to chip away at the Royals lead but EMU continued to hold a slim advantage until the Marlins hit a three at the 7:19 mark, taking an 18-17 lead. A bucket from Daijordan Brown gave EMU the lead back but VWU pulled ahead once again with an 8-0 run. Andre Pacheco scored four straight to pull EMU within three and a CJ McCord layup cut the deficit to one, 26-25. Pacheco's jumper gave the Royals the lead late in the half but the Marlins would end the period on a 6-3 run and take a 32-30 lead into the break.

Second Half

The Marlins pushed their lead to four to start the half but another Hagerman three and a pair of Mark Burkholder free throws put EMU on top. Virginia Wesleyan responded with a 12-0 run, taking a 46-35 lead, before a Michael Watlington layup ended the Marlins run. VWU was able to push their lead to 23 late in the game before some late points by the Royals cut into the lead and reflecting the 17-point final score.

Statistical Leaders

Burkholder – 13 points, 11 rebounds

Pacheco – 13 points (career high)

What's Next

EMU will hit the road this weekend as they travel to Ferrum for a Saturday showdown with the Panthers. Tipoff is scheduled for 4:30 pm.

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