Williamsburg, KY – The 13^th-ranked UC men's basketball team hung tough with top-ranked Georgetown before ultimately falling 71-60 Thursday night at Randy Vernon Court.  With the win the Tigers improve to 23-1 overall, while the Patriots move to 20-5 overall and 9-2 in conference play.

Caleb Taylor recorded a career-high seven blocks to go along with his 15^th double-double of the season as the senior notched 16 rebounds and 10 points.  He is currently ranked second in the NAIA in double-doubles.  Tevin Olison chipped in a team-high 18 points and seven boards, while Jordan Griggs added 14 points.

Both teams came out with strong defensive efforts leaving the game tied at 4-4, five minutes in.  On UC's next possession Taylor grabbed an offensive rebound and put back to give UC a 6-4 edge.  The two teams traded baskets, before Georgetown went on a 5-0 run to take a 12-8 lead. UC responded with back-to-back three's from Olison put Cumberlands back in front 14-12 midway through the first half. Georgetown utilized a 9-2 run, over a five minute span, to take a 23-16 advantage.  Cumberlands got a pair of field goals from Steven Fitzgerald coupled with six free throws to head into halftime trailing 30-26.

Griggs drained a pair of free throws to start the second half and a couple possession later Ethan Snapp hit from long-range to cut the deficit to 35-31.  The two teams continued to trade buckets until Griggs converted consecutive field goals to bring UC within two at 41-39 with 14:43 remaining.  Less than a minute later Taylor notched a pair of blocks which results in baskets from Olison and Taylor putting Cumberlands in front 43-41.  Georgetown responded with a 14-4 run to take a 56-47 lead midway through the second half.  The Tigers extended their lead to 13 points, however UC continued to battle back getting a three from Fitzgerald and four straight free throws from Griggs brought UC ten points with 1:42 remaining.  The Patriots continued to battle but couldn't complete the comeback as Georgetown held on for the 71-60 final.

The Patriots will return to action Saturday, February 15, when they return travel to Crestview Hills, KY to face Thomas More. Tip off is slated for 4 p.m. with live stats will be available here and live video available here.

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