Men’s basketball team loses to Trinity International, 111-92, in season-opener

PALOS HEIGHTS, Ill. – The Olivet College men's basketball team fell to Trinity International (Ill.) University, 111-92, tonight in its season-opener at the Trinity Christian (Ill.) College Trolls Classic, held inside the DeVos Gymnasium in Palos Heights, Illinois.

In the first half, the Trojans led by 19 points twice, with the last time being 26-7 at the 14:11 mark. Olivet battled back with a 14-4 run, capped by a three-pointer by junior Kevin Woodson, to trail by only nine points, 30-21, with 9:48 left before halftime. Trinity International's 26-point lead at halftime was its largest lead of the game. The Trojans extended their lead to 33 points, 89-56, at the 11:36 mark of the second half. The Comets would only get as close as 19 points late in the game.

Senior Lee Gardner posted a double-double, 38 points and 17 rebounds, in his debut in an Olivet uniform. He made 11-of-20 baskets, including four three-pointers, and 12-of-14 free throws for his 38 points, while 12 of the rebounds were off the defensive glass. Woodson joined him in double figures with 15 points of 5-of-9 shooting from the floor.

Jeremy Carlyle led Trinity International with 26 points. James Glass had 16 points.

The Comets will play the host Trolls in a second-round game of the tournament tomorrow afternoon at 3 p.m. EST.