Charlotte, NC –Johnson & Wales (6-12) (ranked 18th in the USCAA Coaches' Poll) hosted the Sabers of Barber Scotia College (0-18) in their first game of the New Year. The Wildcats were able to take an early lead on the undermanned Sabers and cruised home to an 88-51 win.

The Wildcats opened the half with a 15-2 run, keyed by Kindrick Anderson's 7 points.  JWU used a 13-0 run in the middle of the first half to build a 26 point lead at 38-12. The Wildcats maintained a 26 point lead for the rest of the half. The half time score of 49-23 established a new school record for fewest points allowed in a half.

Neither team played particularly well for the first part of the second half. Barber-Scotia could get no closer than 22 points at the 11:18 mark, but the Wildcats could not extend the lead, either. The Wildcats picked up their play in the final 8 minutes the game and eventually pulled away for an 88-51 lead.

JWU was led by DeQuincey Bennett with 21 points and 7 rebounds. Anderson followed with 20 points and 6 rebounds. Joshua Cohen added 12 points and 8 rebounds.

The Wildcats travel to Raleigh, NC this Saturday to take on the Pacers of William Peace University. Tip-off is set for 4pm.