PORTLAND, OR - The Valley Forge Christian College men's basketball team defeated the Spartans of Central Bible College on Thursday night (Nov. 29) by a final score of 87-66 in their first game of the Multnomah University Classic.

In Thursday's contest, Valley Forge and Central Bible played a very competitive first half.  The Patriots led 39-35 at the break.  Valley Forge was able to keep the Spartans at arm's length, relinquishing the lead just once, early in the half. The second half was all Valley Forge as they extended their lead to 21 points before the final buzzer.

One of the keys for the Patriots was their ability to get to the free throw line, where they drained 17 free throws.  CBC was better from the charity stripe percentage-wise, but was only sent to the line eight times, shooting 8-for-13.  VFCC's bench also proved to be a factor in the win, adding 22 points to the scoreboard to CBC's 10.  Both teams were knotted at 36 rebounds apiece.

The Patriots were led by senior Donnell Davis who finished the game with 15 points and a game high nine assists.

Sophomore Kevin Mack also dropped 15 points.

Freshman Jonathan Dukes had another impressive night, scoring 13 points and grabbing 11 rebounds for his second double-double of the season.  Dukes was also 7-for-10 from the charity stripe.

Junior Lance Harris was also among the team leaders, adding 14 points to his season tally.

Coming off the bench, sophomore Jean LeBlanc added 10 points.

Central Bible's Tony Malone led all scorers with 17 points in the contest.

Up next for the Patriots will be Portland Bible College (#8 NCCAA II) in the second round of the Multnomah University Classic.  Tip-off is scheduled for 5:00 PM (PST) on Friday, November 30.

GO PATRIOTS!