Due West, SC – The men’s basketball looked to secure a spot in the Conference Carolinas postseason tournament with a win today at home against the Royals of Queens University.  Unfortunately, the Fleet ran into a hot shooting Royals team losing 76 to 72 and most likely missing the conference playoffs.  Lees-McRae College needs to upset Belmont-Abbey later tonight for the Fleet to earn the 8^th seed.

Queens University sprinted out to an eleven point lead (13-2) on three consecutive three point baskets by Devon Seaford early in the first half.  The Fleet responded with their own 12 to 1 run tying the game at 14 a piece on two baskets by senior Victor Street midway through the first half.  The Royals used the rest of the half to rebuild their lead back to double-digits and led 40 to 27 at halftime.  The Royals shot an amazing 75% from the floor, including 9 of 12 from behind the arc, in the first half.

Queens maintained their double-digit lead through the second half until Erskine drilled three consecutive three-point shots within a minute to cut the lead to five points (57 to 62).  Over the last three minutes of the game, the Fleet closed within one point on three occassions but could not take the lead.  Queens converted three of their last four free throws as time expired to secure the 76 to 72 victory.

For the game, Queens shot an impressive 62% (26 of 42), including 59% (13 of 22) from three-point range.  The Fleet shot a solid 43% (24 of 56) from the field, including 45% (13 of 29) from long-range.  The Fleet won the rebounding battle 31 to 20.

Leading the Fleet was senior Brandon Wright with a game-high 24 points.  Seniors Victor Street and Jay Boulware also contributed 16 and 14 points respectively.  Queens University got 18 points from Daniel Bailey and 17 points from Reggie Hopkins and Devon Seaford.

The Fleet end the season 11-16 overall and 8-12 in conference.  Queens University finishes 13-14 overall and 10-10 in conference.