MARIETTA, Ga. -- The Life University men's basketball team secured an 80-65 victory over Milligan (TN) in Kingsport, Tennessee to split their Thanksgiving Holiday weekend.  The Running Eagles used an efficient offense and dominant rebounding to earn the win on the road.

The game opened with a fast pace, as Cortez Johnson scored back-to-back layups in the first two minutes, giving Life an early 4-0 lead. Milligan responded with a three-pointer from Sam Gold to make it 4-3. Both teams traded baskets before Life went on a 9-0 run midway through the first half, capped by a three-pointer from Matija Gledic at 10:03, pushing their lead to double digits.

The Running Eagles maintained control and entered halftime with a 39-29 lead. In the second half, the Running Eagles continued to dominate. Cortez Johnson led all scorers with 25 points on 10-of-11 shooting, adding nine rebounds. Dara Olonade provided crucial bench support, scoring 14 points, including a fast-break dunk and high energy on defense. Tyreke Johnson added 13 points, hitting two three-pointers in the second half to help extend Life's lead to 17 points with 4:48 remaining.

Life shot 50.8% from the field, including 31.3% from beyond the arc, and out-rebounded Milligan 45-32. The defense forced 13 turnovers, converting them into 18 points. Despite Milligan's effort, led by Sam Gold's 16 points and six rebounds, the Running Eagles led the entire second half.

Up next, the Running Eagles travel to Cochran, Ga. to face Middle Ga. in SSAC play. Tipoff is set for 7 pm, following the women's contest.