FRANKLIN SPRINGS, Ga. -- Playing for the third time in four days caught up to Belmont Abbey on Monday as the Crusaders never recovered from a slow start in falling to Conference Carolinas preseason favorite Emmanuel 79-59. Prince Davies and Malik Tucker were the only players in double figures, tallying 12 and 10 points, respectively.

The Crusaders (2-0)  shot just 33.3 percent in the opening period, making just one three-pointer. Meanwhile, the Lions (2-3) hit six threes and made 15 of 18 free throws en route to a 45-17 lead at the break.

HOW IT HAPPENED

• The Crusaders bounced back in the second half by hitting 53.6 percent (15 of 28) but could never recover.
• The Abbey held a 25-23 rebounding advantage, but committed a season-high 26 turnovers.
• Belmont Abbey never led in the contest allowing allowing the first two baskets.
• The matchup of the two Conference Carolinas teams counted as a non-conference affair, as did a Crusader win over the Lions on Friday.

UP NEXT

• Belmont Abbey begins Conference Carolinas play on Friday when it hosts Barton. The teams also meet on Saturday as a part of a reduced travel plan in the league.