Bristol, Tenn. – The King University men's basketball team delivered a dominant second-half performance on Wednesday night, erasing a halftime deficit and powering past Ferrum College 80–75 inside the Student Center Complex. The Tornado improved to 8–12 overall and 6–6 in Conference Carolinas play, while the Panthers dropped to 11–8 (10–4 Conference Carolinas).
In a game that featured six ties and five lead changes, King used a blistering offensive surge after halftime to flip the momentum. The Tornado shot over 61 percent in the second half and outscored Ferrum 53–42, turning a slow start into one of their most complete wins of the season.
Game Flow
Ferrum opened the night with physical interior play and a steady parade to the free-throw line, taking a 33–27 lead after the first half. King struggled to find rhythm early, shooting just 33 percent from the field and 1-for-7 from three in the opening 20 minutes.
The Tornado regrouped quickly after halftime.
Jalen Royster sparked the comeback with a pair of threes, while
Lenier Pocknett and
Xavier Betancourt attacked the paint to trim the deficit. King's ball movement and shot selection improved dramatically, and the Tornado surged ahead midway through the second half.
Ferrum continued to rely on free throws—led by Gerren Jones' 20-for-22 performance at the line—but King's offensive efficiency proved overwhelming. The Tornado shot 61.3 percent in the second half, including 5-of-9 from three, and held off multiple late pushes from the Panthers.
A key defensive stand in the final minute, followed by clutch free throws from Royster and Berchal, sealed the 80–75 victory.
King Highlights
- Jalen Royster led the Tornado with 22 points, 6 rebounds, and 4 made threes, shooting 7-of-13 from the field.
- Lenier Pocknett posted a double-double with 14 points and 10 rebounds, anchoring King's interior presence.
- Xavier Betancourt added 14 points, 5 rebounds, and 5 assists in a strong all-around performance.
- Jeremias Berchal contributed 12 points and 4 assists, providing steady guard play throughout the second half.
- Luis Acevedo added 8 points and 4 rebounds, giving King valuable minutes on both ends.
- King shot 47.5 percent from the field and 37.5 percent from three, while holding Ferrum to 30 percent shooting.
Key Stats
- Rebounds: King 41, Ferrum 39
- Points in the Paint: King 44, Ferrum 16
- Points off Turnovers: King 9, Ferrum 11
- Second-Chance Points: King 10, Ferrum 18
- Bench Points: King 10, Ferrum 6
- Fast Break Points: King 24, Ferrum 12
- Three-Pointers: King 6, Ferrum 4
Conclusion
King showcased resilience, poise, and explosive second-half offense in a hard-fought conference win. Royster's perimeter scoring, Pocknett's dominance on the glass, and Betancourt's playmaking fueled the Tornado's comeback. King's defensive adjustments and efficient shooting after halftime proved decisive in overcoming Ferrum's free-throw-heavy attack.
With the victory, the Tornado continue to build momentum as they push toward the heart of Conference Carolinas play.
Next Game
King returns to action on
Saturday, February 7, traveling to Barton for a
4:00 p.m. tipoff.
