BOONE, N.C. – App State men's basketball (3-2) fell just short for the second time this season in a 71-67 loss to Kennesaw State (4-1) on Saturday night.
The Mountaineers went on a 13-4 run in the second half to erase a six-point deficit and gain a seven-point lead but were not able to come out on top.
Justin Abson blocked four shots on the night to increase his total to 15 through his first five collegiate games, which ranks him fifth in the country in blocks through the first two weeks of the season.
The Mountaineers showcased their depth, outscoring the Owls 29-13 in points off the bench.
Christopher Mantis started the trend by scoring eight consecutive points in the first half that helped the Mountaineers gain an 18-13 advantage. Mantis' run consisted of two three-pointers and a driving layup through contact.
After a back-and-forth first half that ended with a score of 28-28,
Dibaji Walker responded to a Kennesaw State run with eight points of his own during the Mountaineers' run that put the score at 62-55 in favor of the home team.
After
Donovan Gregory brought the Mountaineers from 56 to 62 points, the Owls took the lead and kept it for the remainder of the game.
Gregory and
Terence Harcum led the scoring charge with 13 points apiece, and Abson led App State with eight rebounds.
The Mountaineers will close the home tournament tomorrow at 2:30 against Southeastern Louisiana. The Lions defeated Campbell 70-69 at the last second on Saturday after losing to Kennesaw State on Friday, 68-72.
