Loyola defeated William Carey 63-50 last Monday night, avenging a 57-70 loss earlier in the season. The Wolfpack dominated early with a 29-9 run from the opening tip.
William Carey struck back with a run of its own, capped by a buzzer-beating three pointer from senior Rudy Bell that left the team trailing 34-20 at halftime.
The ‘Pack found a rhythm in the second half, maintaining a double-digit lead throughout. William Carey hung tough, but could not muster enough consistent offense to gain
ground. Solid performance from the free throw line from the ‘Pack allowed the lead to balloon to 17 points late in the game, giving the team an easy path to victory.
The win put Loyola’s record to 9-16, with a 2-11 record in conference play.
Four players scored in double figures for Loyola, led by finance senior Daniel Schmidt’s 17 points. General business freshman Bear Wurts, who has consistently performed during reserve minutes this season, added 12 points. Management senior Zack Tyson led the team with 10 rebounds.
For William Carey junior Renaldo Dorsey led the team with 23 points.
Tyson was selected as the GCAC Men’s Player of the Week after two strong performances against Mobile and Belhaven. He shot over 60 percent from the field in both games and averaged 21 points. He also hit a game winning shot to give Loyola the win over Belhaven, ending a 10 game losing streak for the ‘Pack.
The 6-7 guard/forward was surprised to win the award, the first of his college career.
“I played how I usually play and just happened to put up some big numbers,” Tyson said.
Tyson averages over 12 points and 6 rebounds a game this season, leading the team in both categories.
Tyson credits improved shot selection and extra work after practice for his increased production this season.
Loyola plays LA-Shreveport on Saturday at 5:00 PM in the Den. The ‘Pack was defeated 76-58 in their last meeting. LA-Shreveport is 21-6 this season, with a conference record of 12-1.
Saturday’s game will be Loyola’s last contest at home.
Chris Liuzza can be reached at [email protected].
