Men's Basketball | 1/24/2009 5:43:59 PM

FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. - The Methodist men's basketball team scored first and never trailed as they took the 57-55 win over LaGrange.

Freshman Mark Jernigan scored the first basket of the game for the Monarchs (7-9, 2-1).  LaGrange (6-14, 1-2) tied the game at six, but never led as Methodist held the 26-24 lead at halftime after a jumper from senior #A.B. Lehmann#. 

Methodist started the second half on a 7-2 run capped off by a layup from Jernigan.  The Monarchs continued to maintain their lead, building up a 54-44 point advantage with 50 seconds to go in the game.  LaGrange battled back and hit crucial 3-pointers, but Methodist held on for the 57-55 win.

Jernigan led the team with 13 points while junior #Tyler Sigman had 10 points.  Sophomore Marcus Connor was just shy of a double-double with nine points and 11 rebounds.

Methodist will travel to N.C. Wesleyan on Tuesday for a 7:30 pm tip-off.

Box Score