Rocky Mount, NC - In a thrilling rematch of the conference championship game from a year ago, the N.C. Wesleyan men's basketball team showcased resilience and bounced back from Tuesday's loss, securing a hard-fought victory against William Peace with a final score of 76-69. 

The standout performances of Austin Manley, Marquis Eskew, and Kyron Kelly were instrumental in the the Battling Bishop's big USA South win. Manley's seventeen points, perfect 5-5 from the line, and Eskew's dominant sixteen points, eight rebounds, and six assists, particularly highlighted a pivotal driving and one in the closing minutes. Kelly controlled the paint, finishing with thirteen points, seven rebounds, and a game-sealing unreal block, added to the team's bounce back win. 

The Basics:
Score: N.C. Wesleyan 76, William Peace 69
Location/Venue: Rocky Mount, NC / Everett Gymnasium
Records: N.C. Wesleyan (10-8, 4-3 USA South), William Peace (8-10, 3-4 USA South)

Wesleyan's efficiency was evident as the Bishops shot 45% from the floor and achieved a near season-best 70% accuracy from the free-throw line. Wesleyan displayed a balanced offensive effort with five players reaching double figures. Additionally, their dominance on the boards, crashing for over 40 rebounds, showcased Kyron Kelly and Justin Burden's skill set as the two combined for thirteen boards.

Up Next:

The Battling Bishops will hit the road for two games beginning on Saturday as men's basketball travels to Southern Virginia for a 5:00 tip-off time.