Long-distance gunners lift Bulldogs to victory

CANCUN, Mexico — The Citadel basketball team was hot from behind the 3-point line in its 55-41 victory over Grambling State on Sunday in the Cancun Challenge.

The Bulldogs (4-3) shot 46.2 percent from behind the arc with Zach Urbanus leading the Bulldogs in 3-point field goals.

Urbanus had a game-high 15 points, with all his points coming from behind the arc.

Cameron Wells recorded his second double-double of the season with 10 points and a career-high of 14 rebounds. Wells dished five assists on the offensive end, while Bryan Streeter contributed with two blocks.

"I am so proud of our team," said Citadel coach Ed Conroy. "We did a great job hanging on to the ball. Grambling definitely threw different things at us, and we did a great job of adjusting. Our defense was so solid and our box-outs were great, which allowed Cameron to get in there and grab some rebounds.

"We were able to perform like we can," continued Conroy. "This was a great experience for us and it gives us a chance to build on our confidence going into conference play this week."

The Bulldogs next head to UNC Greensboro for a game Thursday at 7 p.m., followed by a game at Elon on Saturday at 7.

The Citadel forced 12 turnovers against the Tigers (1-4) and was able to capitalize on those turnovers. The Tigers

forced the Bulldogs to turn the ball over just nine times. On the boards, the Bulldogs grabbed 30 rebounds, compared to the Tigers' 25. Off the bench, the Bulldogs outscored the Tigers, 22-17.

"Our defense is a work in progress, but our guys do a great job of following scouting reports," added Conroy.

"Eleven guys played in the second half, which added depth that we needed today. Even our fans got into it behind us, which helped keep our confidence going."