DANVILLE, Va. - EMU was looking to get back in the win column on Saturday, when they made the trek to Danville to take on Averett. 

Four Royals scored in double figures, but it wasn't enough as the Cougars picked up an 86-66 win. 

Records: EMU 4-13, 1-8 ODAC | Averett 8-10, 3-6 ODAC

Highlights

First Half
The Cougars knocked down a three to open the game, before Aviwe Mahlong's jumper pulled EMU within one. Averett continued to maintain a lead, but once again, EMU was able to pull within one, this time on a basket by Aaron Brooks. Later in the half, with AU leading 13-6, EMU went on an 8-2 run, highlighted by three points from Kaleb Torrence and two from Brooks and Isaiah Carr, to once again cut their deficit to one. A 10-2 Averett run followed the EMU run, extending their lead to nine, 25-16. Late in the half, EMU was able to pull within six after a Mahlong basket, but Averett ended the half scoring eight straight, to take a 42-28 lead into the break. 

Second Half
A layup from Mahlong and a three from Torrence sandwiched a Cougar jumper to start the second half. Averett, however, would extend their lead to as many as 19 at the 15:05 mark and the 12:29 mark of the second half. Anytime it seemed like EMU's offense would make a basket and try to climb back into the game, Averett would knock down a bucket to grab the momentum back. The Cougars shot the lights out in the second half, going 13-21 from the field, including 2-2 from three and 16-16 from the free throw line. With AU leading by 23 late, Payton Lewis drilled a three, his third of the game, to wrap up the scoring. 

Statistical Leaders
Lewis: 17 points
Carr: 12 points, 3 rebounds, 3 assists
Mahlong: 12 points

What's Next
EMU will return to Yoder Arena for another home Wednesday matchup, this time against the Maroons of Roanoke College. The Rowdy Royals game will tipoff at 7 pm. 

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