MARIETTA, Ga. — The Life University men's basketball team faced Ave Maria (FL) oin Kingsport, Tennessee. Despite a strong effort, the Running Eagles fell 84-74 in a tightly contested game.

Ave Maria opened the scoring early and built momentum, but the Running Eagles kept the game competitive, fueled by a balanced attack and strong rebounding. The Running Eagles trailed 41-36 at halftime and continued to push in the second half but were ultimately outscored 43-38.

Tyreke Johnson led Life with 17 points and nine rebounds. Johnson opened the game with a three-pointer at 18:45, giving Life an early 3-0 lead. Chaze Harris contributed 11 points, seven rebounds, and six assists. Harris also showcased defensive prowess with four steals and two blocks. Cortez Johnson posted a double-double, finishing with 11 points and 12 rebounds, including a layup at 9:32 in the first half to briefly put Life ahead.

Srdjan Popovich added nine points, hitting two three-pointers. Bench contributions included Dara Olonade's nine points and Matija Gledic's six points and four rebounds.

The game featured several momentum swings, as both teams traded the lead six times. Life struggled from beyond the arc, shooting just 18.4% (7-of-38), compared to Ave Maria's efficient 41.7% (5-of-12). At the free-throw line, Life shot 56.5% (13-of-23), while Ave Maria converted 70.8% (17-of-24).

The Gyrenes earned their largest lead of 14 points with 10:26 remaining in the second half. Ave Maria capitalized on their inside presence, scoring 52 points in the paint compared to Life U's 38. They also recorded 16 second-chance points, despite Life's edge in offensive rebounding (22-14).

The Running Eagles return to the court tomorrow, facing Milligan University in Kingsport, TN at  5:15 pm.