Berea Men's Basketball Opens Season with Strong Win and Tough Loss

Game 1: Berea vs. Asbury University (68–59)
Location: Berea, KY — November 11
The Berea College men's basketball team began their 2025–26 season at home, welcoming former preseason #2 team in the CCS, Asbury University. Despite a roster with many returning players from last year, the Mountaineers played a fantastic game and secured a 68–59 victory. Senior Bryce Riley led the team offensively with 24 points and 11 rebounds, showcasing leadership and aggressiveness. Junior Jae'dyn Gist contributed 8 points and 7 rebounds, shooting an impressive 8–8 from the free throw line. Freshman Zach Hudson provided a spark off the bench, scoring 8 points and grabbing 8 rebounds. Other key contributors included seniors Anthony Hamm (6 points), Jaylen Black (5 points, 3 assists), and junior Jack Ngog (6 points, 3 rebounds). The team out-rebounded the Eagles 50–32 and limited them to a 33% field goal percentage.

Game 2: Berea vs. Centre College (58–76)
Location: Berea, KY — November 13
Following their big win, the Mountaineers hosted the preseason #1 team in the SAA, Centre College. It was a close contest in the first half, with Berea trailing by only 4 points at halftime, 26–30. However, a cold shooting night in the second half allowed Centre to pull away, resulting in a 76–58 defeat. Bryce Riley once again led the team with 19 points and 6 rebounds. Freshman Zach Hudson posted 11 points, 6 rebounds, and 4 assists. Senior Andrew Jones added 10 points and 4 rebounds. Other notable efforts came from sophomore Braden Hudson (6 points), senior Jaylen Black (6 points, 4 assists), and freshman Zavian Douglass (6 points, 2 rebounds).

Upcoming Games:

• Tuesday, Nov 18: at Maryville College
• Saturday, Nov 22: Homecoming Weekend

Summary:
Week 1 Record: 1–1
Key Players: Bryce Riley, Zach Hudson, Jaylen Black