MCKENZIE, Tenn. – The Bethel Wildcats dropped their third straight Monday night falling at home to No. 13 Dalton State 95-91. Bethel fell to 8-7 overall and 1-2 in the SSAC. The Roadrunners moved to 8-3 overall and 3-1 in the league.
The Wildcats had a 49-27 advantage in points in the paint. They also enjoyed a 38-5 advantage in bench points. Bethel had a 21-3 margin in second chance points but for the second straight game it was the long ball by the opponent which was Bethel's undoing.
After giving up 17 three-pointers in their 100 -82 loss to Faulkner Saturday night it was DSU capitalizing on 14 made three's which eventually proved to be the difference in the match-up.
The Wildcats shot 46 percent from the field on 32-of-69 but Dalton State was even better at 55 percent on 27-of -49 shooting. While the Roadrunners finished with their 14 three-pointers the Wildcats made seven. DSU hit 27-of-37 free throws while Bethel was 20-of-29 from the foul line.
The Roadrunners were led by Reed Dungan with 29 points. He knocked down seven treys in the game. Isiah Box scored all of his 23 points in the second half. He made six three's in the game. Sean Chisolm had 20 points before fouling out. Carnilious Simmons had 16 points before also fouling out. He completed his double-double with 12 rebounds.
Isaac Edmondson led Bethel with 22 points. Cayden Edmonson had a career high with 19 points. He also finished with his first career double- double yanking down 11 rebounds. Bradley Walker had 16 points while Chase Nappier had 12 points before fouling out.
Coach Jeff Britt commented on the loss. "We just gave up to many open looks. Obviously we did not defend as we know we can. Dalton State is a fine team and took advantage of our defensive lapses. We will give the men off until the 27th. At that point we will attempt to get about ten practices in and prepare for a solid Blue Mountain squad." He added, "We want to wish all of our fans a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. We also want to thank them all for their support."
The Wildcats return to action January 4 traveling to Blue Mountain with tip-off at 7:30 p.m.
Dave McCulley and Zach O'Kelley will call the action.
Fans can listen to the game on WEIO, 100.9 and at www.thefarmradio.com.
