Box Score

PHOENIXVILLE, PA – The Valley Forge Christian College men's basketball team defeated Florida Christian on Friday, November 16, 2012, during Day 2 of the Hersha Hospitality Classic at the Pit.

Heading into the game, the Patriots' coaching staff was uncertain of whether or not the young team was ready for the early season test, but the players came out and stuck to the game plan.  Florida Christian mirrored the Patriots' roster in a lot of ways, as they too employ a pressure defense and thrive in transition.  The outcome seemed simply to hinge on which team would execute better.

The Patriots' goal was primarily to limit Florida Christian's inside game.  They wanted to play good team defense, while keeping the Suns off the offensive glass.  The Patriots keyed in on help defense and containing dribble penetration.  The Patriots made it difficult for the Suns to get close looks at the basket. 

Early in the game, both teams seemed to trade baskets.  The Patriots were playing decent defense by stepping in and taking charges and forcing tough shots, but they didn't efficiently capitalize on the offensive end the way they would have liked.  However, a few of Florida's key players found themselves in early foul trouble.  Nonetheless, Florida Christian hung in for most of the first half.  It wasn't till late in the half, that the Patriots' started gain the upper hand. 

At the break, the Patriots led, 43-34.

To start the second half, the Patriots extended their lead and began to gain control of the contest.  Although sloppy at times, the team recalibrated their focus during key moments and kept their edge.  The final score was 88-67.

Rebounding also paid huge dividends against the Suns, as the Patriots held a 40-31 advantage on the boards.  The Patriots shot 53.7% from the field and 46.2% from the perimeter.

One last statistical category that seemed to stick out in the Patriots' second game of the season was assists.  The Patriots garnered 21 assists, compared to eight assists earned by the visiting Suns.

Freshman Jonathan Dukes recorded a double-double with 10 points and 10 rebounds.

Sophomore Kevin Mack finished with a game-high 19 points, while shooting 8-for-10 from the field.  Mack also led the team with three steals.

Lance Harris added 13 points, seven rebounds and three assists.

Jermaine Purnell tacked on 12 points.

Donnell Davis added 11 points, six assists, and seven boards.

Dominic Cain grabbed seven boards and provided great help defense throughout the night.

The Patriots will match-up against Southeastern University during the final night of the Hersha Hospitality Classic.  Tip-off for that game is set for 6pm.