MARIETTA, Ga. -- In a thrilling season opener to kick off Life University's men's basketball team's 2023-24 campaign, the Running Eagles emerged victorious with a win over Columbia Internation 82-63. The two team's battled throughout the first half before the Running Eagles eventually created separation in the second half to earn a win over the Rams who, like Life U, also saw their season end in the INAIA National Tournament a year ago. 

First Half Highlights: The first half saw Life U jump ahead 7-0 before the Rams responded strongly, claiming control of the early-going 17-11. The Running Eagles quickly responded, ensuring the Rams' lead was halted at six, the largest of the game for CIU. The first half ended with a score of 36-36 as Joshua Ward and Devin Story of Life continued exactly where they left off a season ago.  Heading to the break, Ward ledthe Running Eagles with nine while Story contributed seven. 

Second Half Surge: In the second half, Life outscored CIU (SC) 46-27 as both Story and Ward continued to shine, contributing significantly on both ends of the court. Efficient scoring and passing allowed the Running Eagles to pull away from CIU as the team shot a stellar 51% from the field, and 50% from behind the arc. Additionally, nine of Life U's 14 assists were produced in the second hafl as unselfish basketball and disciplined defending saw the Running Eagles extend a lead and secure the thrilling victory.

Standout Performances:

• Joshua Ward (Life): Ward was stellar with 21 points, 5 rebounds, and 5 assists, leading the second half sure for Life U. 
• Devin Story (Life): Story's versatility was on display as the sophomore poured in  18 points, 8 rebounds, 2 steals, and 2 assists.

Team Stats:

• Life: Shot at 47.8% from the field and 35.7% from beyond the arc. They controlled the boards with 31 total rebounds.

• CIU (SC): Connected on 46.4% of field goals and 41.2% from three-point range. She Rams shot an abysmal 50% from the stripe. 

Up next, the Running Eagles continue play in the Ken Woods Memorial Classic, facing the Banyons from the New College of Florida in the Upper Gym on Saturday at 2 pm.