Charlotte, NC - Paine College narrowly defeated Johnson & Wales Charlotte 81-75 in men's basketball action on Monday afternoon.

The Wildcats led throughout much of the first half as they made six three point shots in the first 20 minutes. Paine got a layup from Quinton Jackson as time expired to give the visitors a two point halftime advantage, 35-33.

Paine slowly built a lead through the first ten minutes of the second stanza, before five straight points from Isaiah Escobar brought the Wildcats to within 3, 62-59 with nine minutes to play. The Tigers had the answer, pushing their lead to as many as ten the rest of the way, before settling for the six point win.

Malcolm Warthen and Nathan Meshida scored 16 points each to lead the Wildcats. Jaylen Benson-Hollinhead had 12 points and 11 rebounds. Jordan Appling scored 11 points and dished out 5 assists. 

The Wildcats are back at home on Saturday, January 25th when they welcome Apprentice School for a 3pm tipoff.