**article by Jake Irvin, SID Intern

ROCKY MOUNT, N.C. - The N.C Wesleyan College men's basketball team won a thriller against rival Averett University by a score of 66-61 on Saturday afternoon in their USA South opener from Rocky Mount.

Senior Wing Damon McDowell led all scorers with 26 points on 9 of 15 shooting overall with 4 three-pointers while also grabbing 6 rebounds, with one assist and a steal.

The Bishops shot 36.4% from three while holding the Cougars to 20% which helped lead them to victory along with their strong defensive play throughout the day.

Junior forward Isaiah Lewis scored 12 points to go with 7 rebounds, 3 assists, a steal, and 2 blocks. Junior forward Sal-Bey Young was also in double-figures as he scored 14 points to go along with 8 rebounds, 2 assists, and a steal.

The Wesleyan men improve to 7-3 on the season and 1-0 in the East Division while remaining undefeated at home. Averett dropped to 2-6 overall. Their next game is at LaGrange, GA on Wednesday at noon.