PHOENIXVILLE, PA- The Valley Forge Christian College men's basketball team competed in the first round of the Assemblies of God Classic tonight, January 10, 2013.  The Patriots went up against Central Bible College and defeated them, 77-70.

Throughout the first period, the Patriots maintained a solid lead, shooting 50% from the paint and beyond the arc.  While both teams held 21 rebounds, the Patriots were able to commit two less turnovers and nabbed three steals.  The Patriots would be up 33-24 going into the half.

After the break, the Patriots continued to lengthen their lead, going up 18 points ahead of the Spartans, 54-36, with 13 minutes left.  Not wanting to go out without a fight, the Spartans picked up their pace and started to pick away at the lead.  While the Spartans out-shot the Patriots 58% to 20% from the arc and led the half in rebounds, 20-15, they were unable to overcome the score deficit faced earlier in the game to claim the win.

The Patriots shot 49% from the paint and had a season-low of 10 turnovers.  The Spartans shot 63% from the foul line and held the rebound advantage, grabbing 41 boards.

Lance Harris recorded 17 points, nine rebounds, four assists and four steals.

Jonathan Dukes notched 17 points, nine rebounds, and two steals.

Domenick Bond scored 12 points, along with five rebounds, three assists and two steals.

Kevin Mack tallied 14 points against the Spartans, going 4-for-6 from the free-throw line. Dominic Cain scored a total of six points for the night.

Leading the Spartans was Mason Horsley who recorded a game high 21 points, along with six rebounds and three assists.

The Patriots are back in action Friday, January 11, 2013, for the second day of the Assemblies of God Tournament.  They will compete against Trinity Bible College at 8 pm.

Go Patriots!