By: Silas Lott, Sports Information Assistant

MOUNT BERRY, Ga. – The Berry College men's basketball team held off Brevard College for their first win of the season on Saturday night with a 69-67 final.

Junior Elijah Hirsh led Berry with 17 points, adding six rebounds, two steals and two assists to ensure the Vikings' narrow victory.

Three other Vikings, Caleb Johnson, Cory Johnson, and Nick Marder also added double-digits in the win. At the half, Berry led 33-28, and built up a 14-point lead midway through the second half.

The Tornados made a late push, and managed to cut the deficit to three points with two minutes left in the game. Divese Carson led Brevard with 18 points, including a trio of three-point baskets, along with six rebounds before fouling out late in the game. 

A late free throw by McCarty Forte would put the Vikings up by four before Brevard's final possession of the game. The Tornados were only able to score a put-back dunk due to strong defense by Berry. 

BERRY STANDOUTS:

• Elijah Hirsh: 17 PTS, 6-for-12 FG, 5-for-9 FT, 6 REB
• Caleb Johnson: 12 PTS, 2-for-8 FG, 8-for-9 FT, 5 REB, 3 BLK
• Nick Marder: 10 PTS, 4-for-9 FG, 5 REB, 3 STL

BREVARD STANDOUTS:

• Divese Carson: 18 PTS, 7-for-9 FG, 3-for-4 3PT FG, 6 REB
• Shelby Parris: 13 PTS, 5-for-8 FG
• Levi Lamb: 9 PTS, 3-for-10 FG, 4 AST, 3 BLK, 2 STL

NOTABLES: 

• The Vikings improve to (1-1) on the season, while Brevard falls to (0-1). 

UP NEXT:

• Berry's next game will be Tuesday, Nov. 21 at home against the Emory Eagles. Tipoff set for 7:00 p.m.