In North Charleston, South Carolina, the Charleston Southern Buccaneers triumphed over Gardner-Webb with a score of 72-63 on Thursday.
Daren Patrick was instrumental in the victory, contributing 19 points and capturing seven rebounds, marking a strong performance for the Buccaneers, who now hold a record of 5-11 with a 1-0 standing in the Big South Conference.
RJ Johnson also made a significant impact, pouring in 18 points and achieving a shooting accuracy of 6 for 12 from the field, including 1 for 4 from long-range, alongside a solid 5 out of 8 from the free-throw line.
Taje’ Kelly rounded out the top scorers with 14 points, though his efficiency was slightly less, hitting 4 of 12 shots overall and missing all three attempts from beyond the arc, while finishing at the line with 6 successful attempts out of 10.
On the opposite end, Ademide Badmus led the Runnin’ Bulldogs with 12 points and seven rebounds.
Additional scoring for Gardner-Webb came from Darryl Simmons II and Jamaine Mann, who each chipped in 11 points to their collective effort.
The game marks the start of the conference play for both teams, setting the stage for an exciting season ahead.