Eagles Go 2-0 at Faith Classic, Defeat AFLBS

The Eagles concluded the Faith Classic basketball tournament Saturday night hosting Association Free Lutheran Bible School (Plymouth, MN). Faith looked to carry the momentum from their thrilling win against Ecclesia the previous night, jumping out to a 9-0 lead against AFLBS within the first two minutes. AFLBS got their offense going and was able to keep the contest close throughout, but Faith held on to grab the 87-81 victory.

Faith extended their lead in the early part of the first half, leading 36-18 with 8:53 left in the half. AFLBS took advantage of a series of turnovers and fouls committed by the Eagles, going on a 10-0 run to cut Faith's lead to 36-28. The Eagles entered halftime still in control of the game, holding a 42-37 lead.

AFLBS came out of halftime fighting, pulling within three points at the 17:25 mark, as close as they would get in the game. Faith was able to put some distance between them and the Conquerors, but AFLBS continued to crash the offensive boards, which gave them several second-chance opportunities and kept them in the game. With 3:47 left in the game, AFLBS cut the lead to three again after a breakaway dunk by Aaron Arneson. Faith didn't let the 72-69 score rattle them and continued to control their lead. Jon Luke Talton's two dunks within the last three minutes sent all the momentum the Eagle's way and helped secure the 87-81 win. The win pushed Faith to 3-0 on the young season.     

Josh Bray led the Eagles in scoring with 31 points and also contributed ten rebounds. Teammate Jon Luke Talton followed right behind with 30 points. Ryan Kupferschmid captured a double-double with 17 points and 11 rebounds. Mark Young played a big part in creating offensive opportunities by picking up four steals and also dishing out five assists.

The Eagles have the next week off for Thanksgiving but are right back in action after the break with an away game on Tuesday, November 29^th at Emmaus Bible College.