NEW ORLEANS, La. – The Bethel Wildcats and the Loyola Wolf Pack met for the 13th time Thursday night. It was the SSAC season opener for both squads.
The (RV) Wildcats saw their two game winning streak snapped with a 96-91 loss. The No. 17 Pack remained unbeaten winning their ninth straight. LU leads the series 7-6.
A nip and tuck first half saw the Wildcats trail 51-47 at the break. Loyola steadily pulled away mid-way of the second half and led by double digits before the Wildcats closed to within three at 92- 89 with 30 seconds left. LU hung on and handed the Wildcats their third loss. Bethel is 5-3 on the season.
The Wildcats were led in scoring by Cameron Ricks who had 21 points. Javonte Ellis followed with 20 on the night. Cayden Edmonson had 18 points while Noah Chatman finished with 10 points and nine rebounds.
The Wolf Pack had seven players averaging in double figures entering the game. Seven had double figures versus the Cats with Tim Cameron leading the Pack with a game high 24 points.
Bethel shot 44 percent from the field hitting 31-of-69 shots. They hit six three's and were 23-of- 33 from the foul line. The Wildcats had a 41-40 rebound advantage.
The Wolf Pack shot 52 percent at 36-of-68 from the floor. They hit six three-pointers and were 18-of-29 from the free throw line. LU had a 27-14 advantage in points off turnovers. The Pack bench outscored the Wildcat reserves 22-14.
Coach Jeff Britt was proud of his team despite the loss. "Our young men played tremendously hard against a very talented team. Loyola has a lot of weapons. I'm proud of our guys. I thought we showed a lot of character."
The Wildcats remain on the road facing No. 7 William Carey Saturday. Tip-off in Hattiesburg is slated for 2 p.m. WCU leads the series 9-5.
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