BAYAMON, Puerto Rico. - The Messiah men's basketball team defeated the Seahawks of St. Mary College of Maryland 78-61 in game one of the Puerto Rico Tournament. Evan Parker shot 7-11 from the field, sinking three threes to lead all scorers with 19 points. Caleb Lyles (13) and Caleb Thompson (12) finished with strong outings for the Falcons.
 
The Falcons will play Marietta College tomorrow at 11:00 a.m. in their final game of the Puerto Rico Tournament.
 
Strong First Half
The Falcons got off to a great start grabbing an early 11-6 lead through the first six minutes of play. Christian Jackson, Caleb Thompson, and Johnny McBride scored baskets early for the Falcons. Messiah would continue to dominate on the offensive end of the floor, opening an 11-point lead 21-9 with 10 minutes remaining in the half. Over the next three minutes, the Seahawks would battle back, going on an 8-2 run to cut the Falcon lead to 21-17. However, threes from Caleb Lyles and Evan Parker along with a Thompson jump shot would give the Falcons a 29-21 lead with five remaining. Parker would score seven out of the last 12 for the Falcons, ending the half up 38-29.
 
A Dominate Second Half
Parker would pick up where he left off, opening the second half with a quick seven points. From there on the Falcons would ride the momentum, scoring at will. Messiah would grab their largest lead of the game 52-32 with 13 minutes left in the second half. Ethan Johnson, Cole Fisher, Jackson, and Parker all would find the bottom of the net for the Falcons. The Seahawks did not go away, cutting the Falcon lead to 58-44 with eight left in the half. However, Messiah continued to pour it on the Seahawks getting contributions from everyone, taking down St. Mary College of Maryland 78-61.
 
What's Up Next
The Falcons will be back in action from Bayamon Puerto Rico tomorrow to face Marietta College at 11:00 a.m.