LAKE WALES, Fla. – Warner University Men's Basketball continued its impressive start to the 2026-27 campaign on Thursday evening, earning an 89-86 victory over the Thomas University Nighthawks in its home opener at the Turner Athletic Center. The Royals overcame a 10-point halftime deficit with a strong second-half performance to remain unbeaten and improve to 4-0 on the season, matching the best 4-game start since 2022.
Thomas came out with an early offensive spark, shooting 62.5 percent from the field in the opening half to take a 50-40 advantage into the break. The Nighthawks connected on five three-pointers in the first 20 minutes, putting pressure on the Royals to respond after halftime.
Warner answered with a much-needed offensive surge, shooting 59.3 percent from the floor and 55.6 percent from beyond the arc in the second half. The Royals gradually chipped away at the deficit before taking their first lead of the half with just over six minutes remaining.
The contest featured several momentum swings down the stretch, as Thomas briefly reclaimed the lead before Warner made the plays necessary to secure the three-point victory. The Royals closed the game with a 49-point second half, outscoring the Nighthawks by 13 after the break.
Bryson Castillo led all scorers with 27 points, shooting an efficient 9-of-14 from the field and knocking down four three-pointers. Castillo also added four rebounds and three assists while converting all five of his free-throw attempts.
Marcel Pace followed with 18 points, connecting on four three-pointers while adding a steal. Kenny Greenling recorded a double-double with 13 points and a game-high 10 rebounds, shooting 5-of-8 from the field and converting all three of his free throws.
Jaevien Ervin rounded out the Royals' double-digit scorers with 10 points, four rebounds, three steals and two assists. Kyree McKelton contributed nine points and five rebounds off the bench, while Brodie Teke added six points.
As a team, Warner shot 48.4 percent from the field and 44.4 percent from three-point range. The Royals also held a 33-32 advantage on the glass and generated 16 points off turnovers.
Up Next
The Royals will hit the road for a rematch against the Thomas University Nighthawks on Thursday, November 5. Warner will look to carry its undefeated momentum into the second meeting as the two programs square off once again.
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