Bears Drop Close Game to ECU, 77-75

Tuesday, November 8

Greenville, NC

7 PM

Mercer University

0-1,0-0SoCon

East Carolina University

1-0,0-0AAC

Mercer

East Carolina

11/8/2022 10:20:00 PM | Men's Basketball

Box Score

Jalyn McCreary scored a career-high 18 points

By: Amanda Cover

GREENVILLE, N.C. – The Mercer men's basketball program opened the 2022-23 season on the road at East Carolina University on Tuesday, November 8 with a tight matchup, falling 77-75.

The Bears started the game with a strong scoring front, extending the lead as high as 16 in the first half. Senior Shawn Walker Jr. played all but one minute in the first half on his way to 12 points, four assists, and three rebounds on the night.

"It's a lot of fun when you come out that way," head coach Greg Gary said. "Our guys were really ready to play, carried out their assignments, and played well together."

Consistent offensive pressure held the lead in double digits for over 12 minutes. The Pirates gained some momentum at the end of the first half with six unanswered points to enter the break. The Bears led 39-30 at halftime.

"There were a few possessions where we gave them open shots in a critical part of the game that we need to fix," Gary explained. "You can't give it to them, as far as giving them open shots."

Jalyn McCreary broke out in the second half, scoring 14 of his 18 points, setting a new career-high. The transfer from the University of South Florida also notched five rebounds, tied for the team-lead with freshman Dave Craig.

The game remained a one-possession difference for much of the second half as both teams traded points. It was decided in the final seconds when Jaden Walker missed two free throws for the Pirates, allowing Mercer one more opportunity. Luis Hurtado Jr. was fouled while dribbling down court, forcing the Bears to find three points from two free throws with 1.1 seconds left. ECU quickly secured the rebound, ending the game 77-75 in favor of the pirates.

"We knew that he's a good coach and they've got good players, so we knew they'd make a little run," Gary added. "I wish we had pulled that out in the end."

UP NEXT: Mercer men's basketball returns home on Friday, November 11 to face Milligan College at 5:30 p.m. at Hawkins Arena. Tickets can be purchased here.