CLEVELAND, Fla. - New College men's basketball lost a close game 76-81 to Truett McConnell on Chick-Fil-A Youth Day.

The Mighty Banyans (1-9) traveled to Cleveland, Ga, for a match-up against the Bears of Truett McConnell University (5-5). The Banyans were looking to bounce back following an exhibition loss to Florida Gulf Coast Tues. night.

Truett McConnell's defense looked strong in the opening minutes. The Banyan's offense missed their first four shots, allowing the Bears to jump out to an early lead. 

Schuyler Pimentel and Jordan Clark scored the opening buckets for New College, sparking the Banyan's offense. 

The Bears continued to hit shots in the first half, shooting over 50% from the floor and putting the pressure on New College's defense. 

The Banyans continued to fight on both ends of the floor, keeping the game in reach by shooting a season high 85.7% from the free-throw line. The Banyans trailed the Bears 29-41 at the break. 

The second half began with a bang. Junior guard Schuyler Pimentel attacked the rim and scored at will. Pimentel finished the game shooting an impressive 13-18 from the field, as well as converting on all six of his free-throws. Pimentel led the Banyans with 32 points, a new season high. 

The Mighty Banyans improved mightily in the second period of play. The team created excellent rim pressure, scoring 50 points in the paint on 61.2% shooting from inside the arc. 

Jordan Clark and Jackson Dawson contributed in key moments. Clark finished in double figures with 11 points, and Dawson led the team with 9 rebounds and shot 75% from the floor. 

New College controlled the second half, winning the overall half scoring 47-40. Unfortunately, the Bears offense was solid in the final minutes of action, maintaining their lead and winning the game 81-76.

The Mighty Banyans are back in action on Saturday, Dec 9. at Webber International