In a contest that featured six ties and seven lead changes, the Belmont Abbey men's basketball team had its seven-game winning streak snapped by the visiting Barton Bulldogs 79-70 this evening at the Wheeler Center. Barton improves to 20-6 overall and 16-3 in Conference Carolinas, while the Abbey dips to 18-8 overall and 14-5 in Conference Carolinas.

The Abbey received 19 points from Jonathan Jackson, one of four Crusaders in double figures, as he sank eight of his 18 field goal attempts, while dishing out three assists. Chad Patus posted 15 points on six of nine shooting, while grabbing eight rebounds. The Abbey held a 41-34 advantage on the boards, including 18 on the offensive end, including four by Patus. Alex Pledger added 14 points on four of ten shooting, while grabbing seven rebounds. Richard Barbee added 12 points on five of nine shooting. Deonte Murphy led the way with seven assists. Belmont Abbey shot 43.1 percent (28-65) from the floor.

Barton shot 49.2 percent (31-63) including a 56.7 percent (17-30) in the second half, was led by L.J. Dunn's game-high 23 points and eight rebounds. He finished 10-15 shooting from the field, while collecting a pair of steals. Bobby Buffaloe added 18 points and two steals, while Aaron Suggs contributed 12 points on five of ten shooting and a game-high eight assists. David King blocked four shots.