Kissimmee, FL - The Johnson & Wales men's basketball team lost the opener of the Johnson University South Classic on Thursday, falling 83-63 to Grace Bible College.

Freshman Majerle Poole and senior Rickey Porter each scored a team high 16 points for the USCAA #18 Wildcats (4-9).

Grace Bible, last year's runner-up in the NCCAA Division II National Championship, held a definitive size advantage over the Wildcats and used it to control the boards with a 35-20 rebounding advantage.

Tigers senior guard Jared Bradford led all scorers with 19 points while junior forward Bernard Smith added a double-double with 13 points and 12 rebounds.

The Wildcats will resume play on Friday as they take on tournament host Johnson University.  Tip-off is scheduled for 7:00 p.m.