Bucs Take Down Bulldogs in First Place Battle

Asheville's February 16 match up has been one that has been circled on Bulldogs fan's calendars for quite some time. Before UNC-A went on their seven game winning streak to climb atop the South Division standings they were taken down by Charleston Southern 74-68 on the road.

While both teams had been cruising through conference play, both have hit road bumps lately. Asheville lost to Gardner-Webb on Wednesday night and Charleston Southern had lost three of their last four, including a 70-65 loss at Winthrop on Wednesday.

Saturday's game was close throughout as the Buccaneers were up 29-27 at halftime. The game remained close until about the eight minute mark when Charleston Southern exploded for a 15-2 run, which put them up 72-60 with about 90 seconds to play.

In the end the Big South's most talented backcourt was the difference. Sophomores Saah Nimley and Arlon Harper combined for 35 points and 14 rebounds.

Asheville junior Trent Meyer had a career day with 27 points and five assists in the Bulldog's 73-65 loss.

Charleston Southern now finds themselves a half of a game up in the South Division standings. The Bucs have a rare scheduling quirk this week where they'll play three games. CSU will host Presbyterian and VMI this Tuesday and Thursday before heading to play Rider in Bracketbusters.

Asheville will look to rebound with a Tuesday night match up at Coastal Carolina. The Bulldogs took down the Chanticleers earlier this year 63-60 at home.