Over 1,000 fans gathered in Hawkins Arena last night for the men’s basketball team season opener. The Bears kicked off their season with a 93-61 win over Fort Valley State University.
As a team, the Bears shot 55.7% from the field and 44.8% from behind the arc. However, they struggled at the free-throw line going 12 for 19 (63.2%).
Guard Neftali Alverez scored 19 of Mercer’s points and went 2 for 2 at the three-point line. Alverez also had three rebounds and three assists for the night with one steal.
Center Shannon Grant followed close behind Alverez with 17 points, going 8 for 11 on shots. Grant led the team in rebounds with five and had two steals.
Guard Kamar Robertson had an efficient night going 3 for 6 in the field, 3 for 5 at the three-point line and 4 for 4 on free throws. He also led alongside Grant with five rebounds and two assists.
The Bears will travel to the University of Arkansas on Nov. 9 as they look to expand their 1-0 record on the season.