DANVILLE, Va. — Methodist University shot 50 percent from the field to beat the Averett University men's basketball team 81-66 on Sunday afternoon at the Grant Center.
 
Methodist (15-4, 10-1 USA South) attacked the gaps in Averett's defense, repeatedly taking open shots and using its quickness. The Monarchs scored 50 of their points inside the paint. As the Monarchs worked the middle, Averett (8-9) struggled to find its offensive rhythm, and Methodist built on an 11-point lead going into halftime.
 
The Monarchs, who lead the USA South Conference East Division standings, eventually pulled away in the second half as it extended its lead throughout the remainder of the game.  
 
Senior James Contreras Jr. finished with 24 points while junior Austin DeLucia added nine points off the bench.
 
Methodist's Jackson Whitley and Troynell Reese both led the way, scoring 18 and 17 points, respectively.
 
Averett returns to action on Wednesday at N.C. Wesleyan College for a conference game in Rocky Mount, North Carolina, with a 7:30 p.m. tip.