Box Score GEORGETOWN, Ky. ---The Bethel Pilots (24-7, 12-6) defeated the Life University Running Eagles (20-11, 12-6) 75-62 in the Davis-Reed Alumni Gym on Friday evening.
Colin Comer (16),
Beau Jacquay (14),
Austin Cripe (12),
Andrew Hedrick (12), and Al Peciulis (11) each totaled double digits, while Jacquay showcased a double-double with 10 rebounds.
In the opening half, Bethel outshot Life in every offensive category after the Running Eagles charged forth with an aggressive start.
Life led 16-4 in the opening minutes (14:30), but the Pilots banded together for a ten-point stretch to reclaim the lead (23-20, 4:34).
Colin Comer (2:34) and
Andrew Hedrick (1:56) each sank consecutive shots from beyond the arc, assisted by the other, to make it a 29-24 game (1:56).
The duo each showcased an additional triple to close out the half with the 38-26 Pilot lead.
Beau Jacquay went to slam city to kick off the Pilots' scoring after the break (40-28, 18:46).
The Pilots never dropped the lead in the second, and Crossroads League honorees
Austin Cripe (First Team) and
Luke McBride (Honorable Mention) contributed big threes to further Bethel's balanced scoring.
No stranger to the NAIA National Tournament with 2024 and 2025 appearances, Bethel will advance to the second round of the NAIA National Tournament tomorrow to face the Georgetown University (Ky.) Tigers.
Tip-off is set for 5 PM (EST) in the Davis-Reid Alumni Gym.
For more information about Bethel Pilots Athletics, visit bupilots.com or follow us on Instagram, Facebook, or X by searching @bupilots or using #TheRightWayToPlay.
