LYNCHBURG, Va. — The Averett University men's basketball team opened its season with a 55-50 non-conference loss to Lynchburg College on Tuesday night.
 
Despite committing 13 first half turnovers, Averett (0-1) led 22-19 going into the half. The Cougars led 10-8 early on but went seven minutes without scoring a basket, allowing Lynchburg (2-0) go in front before Averett eventually regained the lead before halftime.
 
The turnovers continued to plague Averett in the second half, which allowed Lynchburg to take a 39-38 advantage early in the period. The Hornets held control of the lead down the stretch, but the Cougars stayed within striking distance. Down 51-47, junior Bradley Robinson drilled a 3-pointer to get Averett within one under 33 seconds left to play. Lynchburg hit one of two free throws at the other end, giving Averett a chance to tie or take the lead. However, Averett couldn't covert. The ball was knocked out of bounds and the officials awarded possession to Lynchburg. The Hornets hit three of their next four free throws to put the game out of reach in the final seconds.
 
Robinson led Averett with 20 points, while junior Carter Jones had a double-double of 10 points and 10 rebounds. Senior Cody Stephens added eight points and six rebounds for the Cougars, playing their first game under new head coach David Doino. Sophomore Charles Bryant grabbed six boards and recorded four points for Averett.
 
Although the Cougars stumbled in their opener, there were plenty of positives. Averett won the battle under the glass, outrebounding the Hornets 46-28. The Cougars scored 10 points off Lynchburg turnovers and outscored the Hornets 26-20 in the paint. Averett also went 10-for-13 from the free throw line. Still, the Cougars couldn't overcome the 31 turnovers.
 
The Cougars return to action on Friday as they take on Emory & Henry College at 7:30 p.m. in the second game of the Cougar Classic. William Peace University and Columbia International University face off in the opener at 5:30 p.m. Friday.