MONROE, La. - The Gents were able to cut an early 8-1 deficit to two, but the Warhawks used a 19-3 run to end the first half as Centenary fell to ULM (1-0) 96-63 Friday afternoon, November 11.
While it was an exhibition for the Gents, it was the season opener for NCAA Division I ULM.
Picking up where he left off last season, junior Travion Kirkendoll scored a game-best 24 points on 7-for-15 shooting. Freshman Jericho Gray came off the bench for 12 points, while senior James Sapp poured in 10 points and grabbed seven boards.
Freshman Cedric Harris also grabbed seven boards and recorded more blocks (four) than all of ULM (two).
After sophomore Treylan Matthews split from the line to begin the game, ULM scored eight straight points. A layup by Kirkendoll and a three from junior Dyllon Weaver cut the deficit to two.
ULM built a 27-9 lead midway through the first half, Kirkendoll made a layup and Sapp hit a jumper to quickly cut the deficit to 14. A deep trey by Sapp brought the Gents within 31-18; however, Centenary did not climb any closer.
ULM ended the half on a big run to push the lead to 58-29 at break. During the outburst, three triples by Jordan Harris and another by Marvin Jean-Pierre fueled the home team.
ULM used a 50-33 edge on the boards and a 12-for-29 (41.4 percent) mark from three in the win. Harris led ULM with 23 off the bench, hitting 5-of-7 from beyond the arc. Travis Munnings added a double-double with 16 points and 13 boards for the double-double.
Centenary kicks off the 2016-17 season Tuesday, November 15. Tip in Marshall, Texas, is scheduled for 7:30 p.m.
