Box Score


FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. — Fueled by big first-half outputs from sophomores Kenny Hart and Victor Cortes, Averett cruised to an 85-64 victory over winless Methodist University on Wednesday night.

Hart scored 15 of his 19 points and Cortes netted 12 of his 14 points in the first half as Averett (5-9, 2-1 USA South) pulled away to a comfortable lead before halftime. The Cougars forced 14 turnovers while committing only five in the first period, and Hart and Cortes combined for six of Averett's seven 3-pointers in the opening half.

In the second half, Averett's lead never dipped below 11.

Averett had six players score in double figures. In addition to Hart and Cortes, senior Chad Hardway added 13 points while senior Brandon Malone and freshman Brandon Douglas each scored 11 points. Sophomore Ruben Pierce contributed 10 points.

Methodist (0-12, 0-2 USA South) received 15 points for Mark Jernigan.

The Cougars outscored the Monarchs 27-7 in points off turnovers.

Averett returns to action on Saturday when the Cougars host Christopher Newport University at 4 p.m. at the Grant Center.