SALISBURY, N.C.– The Livingstone College men's basketball team opened its 2026-27 season in impressive fashion Thursday night, cruising to a 108-54 victory over Carolina Christian.
The Blue Bears set the tone early, putting together a strong first-half performance to take a 50-28 lead into the locker room. Livingstone continued to build on that momentum in the second half, outscoring Carolina Christian 58-26 to secure the 54-point victory and begin the season 1-0.
Livingstone showcased its offensive firepower throughout the contest, shooting 50 percent (38-of-76) from the field and an impressive 50 percent (10-of-20) from beyond the three-point line. The Blue Bears also connected on 22-of-31 attempts from the free-throw line.
Doryan Onwuchekwa led the Blue Bears with a game-high 19 points, while adding 11 rebounds to record a double-double.
Isaiah Jones followed with 16 points, seven rebounds and four assists.
James Nipper and
Josiah King each contributed eight points, while
Camerin Horton and
Trey Minard added seven points apiece.
Livingstone's depth was on full display, as the Blue Bears received 51 points from their bench. The team also dominated the glass, collecting 57 rebounds compared to Carolina Christian's 23. Livingstone turned that advantage into 41 second-chance points while also distributing 21 assists.
The Blue Bears' balanced scoring attack and strong team effort helped them reach the 100-point mark and start the season on a high note in front of their home crowd.
Livingstone improves to 1-0 overall and will look to carry that momentum into its next contest.
The Blue Bears will be back at home next Thursday, November 19, when they welcome Shaw University to New Trent Gymnasium for a CIAA doubleheader. The women's game is scheduled to tip off first, with the men's game set to follow at 7:30 p.m.
