Lions wrap up home slate on Senior Day

MARS HILL, N.C. - The Mars Hill men's basketball team (7-18, 5-18 SAC) was defeated by Catawba (16-10, 13-9 SAC) by a score of 87-85 in the team's home finale Saturday evening inside Chambers Gymnasium.

The Indians rallied late, capitalizing on Mars Hill turnovers and outrebounding the team to tie the game at 85 late. With .01 on the clock, Justin Banks floated in the game-winning jumper as the buzzer sounded to complete the comeback. Banks netted 11 points in the half while Nick Walker led all players with 14 points.

Kadyn Dawkins led the Lions with 13 points in the half, followed by 11 from Kendall Davis off the bench. 

Mars Hill led 42-37 at the half, shooting over 57 percent from the floor. Dallas Kendall went a perfect 6-for-6 and hit both free throw attempts to lead all players with 15 points. Dawkins added nine and Marvin Hires chipped in seven, going 3-of-3 from the floor.

Dawkins led all players with 22 points and five assists. Kendall finished the game with 17 points. Kory Davis led the team with four steals, adding nine points and three assists.

Prior to the start of the contest, seniors Kadyn Dawkins and Donovan Morris were recognized and celebrated for their contributions to the men's basketball program.

Mars Hill wraps up the 2024-25 season on the road on Saturday, March 1 when they face Wingate. Tipoff is set for 4 p.m.