MIAMI GARDENS, FL- The Royals traveled to Miami Gardens, Fla to open up SUN play against #22 Florida Memorial University.

The Royals traveled to Florida Memorial University to face off against the Lions in their first conference matchup of the season. The Royals and the Lions had a tough first half as they both went back and forth trading blows on both sides. The Royals were tough on defense as they caused five turnovers from the Lions which allowed them to capitalize on six points off turnovers. The Royals led both sides with a total of nine assists in the first half showcasing their ability to find the open man for the basket. Both teams were able to show a strong performance with rebounding as they combined for 42 in the first half. The Royals were able to stay on top as they led 32-26 after the first half. In the second half, the Royals looked to stay on top of their opponents. It was more of the same with a back and forth performance by the Royals and the Lions. Christian Nurse had a great game as he finished with 15 points, eight rebounds, and an assist. Blaize Darling Jr was able to find his teammates for shots as he recorded 8 assists along with seven rebounds and 19 points. The Royals kept applying pressure to the Lions to close out their first Sun Conference game of the year. However, the Lions would remain persistent and cause multiple turnovers and keep the game close. With time winding down, and the Lions down by two, the Royals looked to make a key stop. A tough defensive effort would prevent a game tying three point attempt and would be no good allowing the Royals to come away with the game victory by a score of 72-68. The Royals open up Conference play with a win to help improve their overall record to 9-5.

INSIDE THE MATCH: Warner University vs #22 Florida Memorial University 
FINAL: Royals 72, Lions 68
RECORDS: Royals (9-5,1-0 ), Lions (12-1,0-1)

MATCH HIGHLIGHTS:

• Christian Nurse  had a great game as he finished with 17 points, 8 rebounds, and an assist 
• Blaize Darling Jr continues to lead the Royals offense, by finding teammates and was aggressive offensively as he finished with 19 points, eight assists, and seven rebounds 
• Josh Glesil shot an excellent 4-7 from three point range as he recorded 12 points with four rebounds. 

UP NEXT: 
The Royals look forward to their next conference game on Wednesday, January 10th as they host Ave Maria University at 7:30 PM.