Men's Basketball | 1/2/2010 4:06:43 PM

FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. - After a back and forth first half, it was LaGrange who took control in the second half to win 84-76 over the Methodist University men's basketball team.

The Panthers (3-9) took the early 17-11 lead, but Methodist (0-9) tied the game at 20 on two free throws from sophomore Mark Jernigan. Both teams exchanged baskets before the score was tied again at 30. LaGrange went ahead 40-35, but the Monarchs came back and took the 41-40 lead. Sophomore Devonne Blackshear hit a free throw before LaGrange tied the game at 42 in the final seconds of the half.

The second half opened with both teams trading baskets before LaGrange went on a 9-0 run to lead 55-47. The Monarchs chipped away at the lead before Methodist senior Tyler Sigman cut the lead to two points with 13:37 to go in the game. The Panthers responded by going on another 9-0 run to lead 65-54. Methodist moved within five points in the final minute, but LaGrange finished with free throws to win 84-76.

Sigman led the Monarchs with 26 points and Jernigan added 21 points. Sophomore Tanner Carnes scored 12 points and added seven rebounds.

Joe Cromwell paced the Panthers with 25 points and 12 rebounds.

The Monarchs will hit the road to take on Piedmont on Sunday at 4 p.m.

Box Score