Men's Basketball | 2/22/2014 6:40:00 PM

Box Score FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. - The Methodist men's basketball team defeated Ferrum, 78-62, in its regular-season finale on Saturday afternoon at the Riddle Center.
 
Before the game, Methodist seniors Tyler Deal and Bryan Hockaday were recognized and honored for their contributions to the program over the past three-plus seasons.
 
Ahead by eight points at halftime (34-26), the Monarchs (10-15, 7-7 USA South) shot at a 55.9 percent clip in the second period (19-34) to offset a 46.4 percent second-half shooting performance (13-28) by the Panthers (10-14, 6-8 USA South). In all, Methodist ended the day with only nine turnovers and held a 42-29 edge in rebounding.
 
Tabias Hilliard scored a team-high 20 points for the Monarchs and also had six rebounds, three assists and two steals. Hockaday had 18 points and 15 rebounds, Desmond Parker added 11 points and 10 rebounds. Chris Vinson and T.J. Gill chipped in 10 points apiece.
 
Jamal Pullen had a team-best 20 points and nine rebounds for Ferrum. Rashawn Speas totaled 15 points and five rebounds, and Brian Clarke chipped in 11 points and four assists.
 
Up next for the Monarchs will be an opening-round game in the USA South Tournament on Feb. 28. Methodist will find its seeding and opponent by tomorrow.