Middle Tennessee outlasts California Baptist in Roman CBI

DAYTONA BEACH – Leading by 16 points halfway through the second half, No. 2 Middle Tennessee hung on to earn a 64-58 win over No. 15 California Baptist in the First Round of the Roman CBI.

DeAndre Dishman hit two fouls shots with 10:22 to go to put the Blue Raiders up 50-34. However, CBI chipped away at the lead to make it a two-point game with 2:23 to go. MT then scored 10 of the last 16 points to earn the right to advance to the Quarterfinals on Monday.

DeAndre Dishman led all scorers for MT with 17 points to go with a team-best six rebounds. Donovan Sims added nine points.

The Lancers were paced by the 14-point effort of Ty Rowell.

The Blue Raiders will meet the winner of Sunday’s First Round match between UNCG and Rice.

Asheville will play Monday against the winner of Sunday’s FAU-Northern Colorado match.