AIC Downs Wilmington, 76-67

New Castle, DE - The Wildcats of Wilmington College dropped their home
opener to the American International College Yellow Jackets in men's
basketball action Friday evening in front of a capacity crowd at the
Pratt Center. 

The Yellow Jackets jumped out to an early 17-5 lead just over six
minutes into the game, and never looked back.  The Wildcats could not
cut AIC's lead, as Wilmington shot only 32 percent from the floor during
the first half.  AIC entered halftime with a comfortable 16 point lead,
43-27.

Wilmington opened up the second half on a 6-0 run and used some strong
defensive pressure during the early part of the period to put American
International on its' heels.  The 'Cats cut the deficit to a mere four
points at the 7:51 into the period.  The Yellow Jackets regrouped and
Alonzo Brown hit two key three pointers to keep Wilmington at bay.
Wilmington attempted another comeback late in the game, and got within
seven points, but costly turnovers prohibited the Wildcats from getting
any closer.  AIC ran the clock out to end the game, and came away with
the 76-67 victory.

The Wildcats were led by senior guard Chris Rogers, who recorded 17
points, 7 rebounds, and 6 assists.  Sophomore forward Taurean Temple
chipped in with 11 points and 6 rebounds, while senior guard Bradford
Morris added 16 points on 7-13 shooting.  Sophomore forward Tim Sowden
had another solid performance, notching 8 points on 4-6 shooting along
with 6 rebounds and 3 blocks.

American International was led by John Higgins, who notched a game high
28 points on 11-18 shooting.  Dexter Gregory added 12 points and 17
rebounds, while Jenar Harrison chipped in with 16 points and 6 rebounds.
Alonzo Brown netted 10 points, shooting 3-4 from behind the arc, and
added 6 assists and 4 rebounds for the Yellow Jackets. 

The difference in the game was rebounds.  AIC held a 53-35 rebound
advantaged and scored 20 points of second chance opportunities.  The
Yellow Jackets shot over 43 percent for the game, while Wilmington only
shot at a 39 percent clip.

Following the game, the Wildcats dropped to 0-2 on the young season,
while American International picked up their first win of the season,
improving to 1-0.  Wilmington is slated to return to action on Tuesday
evening when they travel to take on the Golden Bears of Kutztown
University at 7:00 pm.