MOUNT OLIVE – The University of Mount Olive men's basketball team closed strong down the stretch to secure a 64–61 Conference Carolinas victory over Belmont Abbey on Monday evening inside Kornegay Arena.

The Trojans set the tone early, building momentum in the first half behind efficient shooting and strong defensive pressure. Mount Olive shot 46.4 percent from the field in the opening 20 minutes and used a 13–2 run midway through the half to create separation, taking a 32–25 advantage into halftime.

Belmont Abbey responded in the second half, cutting into the deficit and briefly taking the lead as the game featured multiple lead changes and ties. The Crusaders connected on timely perimeter shots to stay within striking distance, but Mount Olive answered with composure on both ends of the floor.

Jaevian Alston led the Trojans with 14 points, adding 11 rebounds and knocking down key free throws late to help seal the win. Matt Kirby matched Alston with 14 points, highlighted by a pair of crucial three-pointers during a decisive second-half run. Jefferson McLamb also finished in double figures with 13 points, including a timely fast-break three that swung momentum back in Mount Olive's favor.

Defensively, Mount Olive held Belmont Abbey to just 16.7 percent shooting from three-point range, limiting the Crusaders to 4-of-24 from beyond the arc. The Trojans also forced 13 turnovers and converted them into key scoring opportunities, while the bench provided a spark with 24 points.

Despite a late push from Belmont Abbey that cut the margin to two in the final seconds, Mount Olive remained poised at the free-throw line and came up with the final defensive stop to secure the victory.
The Trojans stay home for their next contest against UNC Pembroke on Wednesday at 7 p.m. in Kornegay Arena.