LAKE WALES, Fla. (November 13, 2022) - The Webber International University men's basketball team traveled to Warner University to take their rivals in what was The Sun Conference opener for both teams on Saturday evening. The Warriors shot extremely efficiently as they earned the 85-80 victory over the Royals.

Webber (2-0 overall, 1-0 SUN) earned its first victory against its rivals for the first time since January of 2021. The Warriors were firing on all cylinders offensively as they shot an impressive 52.5 percent from the floor in total and an even 50 percent from three. Defensively, they limited the Royals (4-1, 0-1) to just 27.6 percent and outrebounded them 31-26.

After starting the game tied at seven, the Warriors went on a 13-3 run that ended with a three from Gabriel Divic to lead 20-10, roughly 11 minutes into the game. The Royals battled back to trail by just three on several occasions, but that is as close as they would get for the remainder of the half. Two free-throws by Jordan Golden, who led the team with 13 first-half points, to end the half extended the lead to five at 38-33.

The Warriors maintained their offensive efficiency into the second half as they outscored Warner 23-13 in the first seven minutes, extending their lead to 15 points. In the final five minutes of the game, the Royals slowly chipped away at the lead but it was too little too late. Strong second-half performances from K'Shun Stokes and Tiyon Martin with 16 and 10 second-half points respectively, ensured that the Warriors held on for the victory.

Leading the way in scoring was Stokes with 22 points on 58.3 percent shooting and converting both of his attempted three-pointers. He added four rebounds, three assists, and a steal to his credit. He was followed by Golden with 17 points in total as well as a team-high six rebounds. Orri Hilmarsson ended with 11 points and shot 75 percent from three-point range while Martin also scored 11 and added team-highs in assists with eight and steals with two.

"What a great win to start conference play against a very tough Warner team", said Head Coach Gabriel Rutledge. "Tonight exemplified our toughness in the face of adversity on the road. I was extremely proud of our effort and execution of our game plan. We handled their runs and made multiple winning plays, with great defensive pressure and unselfish offensive play. It was a great team effort as everyone made contributions to the win. We will continue to grow and find ways to get better. Go Warriors."

Webber now returns home for its home-opener against No. 21 Florida College on Friday, November 18th. Tip-off between the Warriors and Falcons is set for 7 p.m. inside the Sabbagh Athletic Center.