Jeremy Wright, Sports Information Intern

HENDERSON, Tenn. – The Freed-Hardeman University men's basketball team (4-0, 1-0 MSC) defeated Lindsey Wilson College (1-2,0-1 MSC) 96-74 on Thursday in the Mid-South Conference debut.

The Lions' win on Thursday was the team's first conference win as a member of the Mid-South Conference. Early in the game, the teams were back and forth until the Blue Raiders took an 18-12 lead early in the first half. The Lions would struggle early from behind-the arc, giving the Blue Raiders some early momentum.

Mid-way through the first half, John Musselwhite would catch fire, going 4-for-4 from behind-the-arc in a much-needed stretch for the Lions, scoring 12 of his 19 points in under three minutes. Musselwhite's scoring run would bring the Lions to within one point, but the Blue Raiders would hold a 42-38 lead at halftime.

To start the second half, the Lions would go on a 9-0 run to take the lead 47-42. Key defensive stops and a barrage of scores on offense helped the Lions blow the game open en route to a 22-point win.

The Lions were led in scoring by Kortland Martin, who had a season high 25 points, along with six assists. Musselwhite pulled down 11 rebounds for a double-double performance.

Wanya King added 14 points, and Jon Moore had 10 points to round out the double-figure scorers.

The Lions will be back in action on Saturday against Cumberland University on the road. Tip-off is set for 3 p.m.