Oxford, GA – Using a 45-4 run in the second half, the Emory Oxford men's basketball team defeated Georgia Highlands Diamonds 104-68. With this win, the Eagles improve to 14-5 for the season including an 11-1 record at home.
The Eagles had five players in double figures and were led by sophomore captain Ryan Kwong who scored 24 points while shooting six of twelve from behind the arc. Fellow captain Zane Patel had 18 points along with 8 rebounds. First-year JJ Halaby had productive night with 23 points, 6 assists, and 5 steals. Classmate Jermon Clark had another double-double with 16 points and 13 rebounds. Sophomore Eric Lee had 12 points to round out the night for the Eagles.
Only up by 8 at the half, the Eagles started the second half slowly but picked up the pace after two dunks by Clark and Patel. The Eagles held the Diamonds to 28% shooting from the field in the second-half and forcing them to turn the ball over 11 times, which led to 20 points for Oxford. The Eagles got a big help from their bench, which was anchored by sophomore Mekhi George and first-year Aaron Gerber. George came in the game and controlled the team, while Gerber came up big with 10 rebounds and 4 assists.
"The guys played well today, especially in the second-half," stated Head Coach Roderick Stubbs. "These past two games are huge confidence boosters as we play two tough teams next week."
This game marked the end of the 8th Annual Dennis Spruell Classic. Oxford now holds a record of 15-1 at this classic and look to continue this winning tradition next year.
The Eagles return to action on Monday, January 21st against Oglethorpe University Reserve Squad. Tipoff is scheduled for 4:00PM.