Winston-Salem, N.C. - Following a lengthy holiday break, the Johnson & Wales men's basketball team resumed play on Saturday, suffering a heartbreaking 76-73 loss at Piedmont International University.

The Wildcats (2-9) held a late lead in the back-and-forth affair after Kajuan Madden-McAfee drilled a three-poiner with 30 seconds remaining to give the Wildcats a 73-71 lead.  However, Piedmont International's Nash Carter answered with a three to reclaim the lead and the hosts were able to hold on for the win.

Johnson & Wales was led by Alcyone Moore with 17 points on the evening, while Malik Bullock added 14 points.  Majerle Poole (13 points) and McAfee (10 points) also reached double digits.

Piedmont International (6-5) were led by Carter with 24 points while Tamir Glenn added 21 points.

The Wildcats led by 40-38 at the half and were up by three with 14:28 remaining when Moore fouled out early.  Johnson & Wales would eventually trail by as many as nine with five minutes remaining, but clawed back and pulled to within one on a Bullock layup with 2:45 remaining.

Johnson & Wales will resume play on Jan. 13 when it hosts Morris College.  Tip-off is scheduled for 3:00 p.m. at the Wildcat Center.