Belmont Cruises Past Middle Tennessee, 83–62, at Murphy Center

Belmont defeated Middle Tennessee State 83–62 at the Murphy Center on a December afternoon in a game that highlighted the Bruins’ defensive strength and efficient offense.

Belmont opened the game strong when Drew Scharnowski scored on a dunk just 12 seconds in. The Bruins built an early lead, reaching 11–4 on contributions from Tyler Lundblade, Brigham Rogers and Bez Jenkins. Middle Tennessee responded behind Jahvin Carter’s outside shooting and Torey Alston’s work inside, briefly taking a three-point advantage midway through the first half.

Belmont closed the half on a run, limiting Middle Tennessee to a single field goal in the final minutes. Nic McClain scored six straight points down the stretch, sending Belmont into halftime ahead 35–31.

At halftime, Belmont coach Casey Alexander focused on maintaining defensive discipline and finding high-percentage shots. Middle Tennessee coach Nick McDevitt urged his team to tighten up defensively and work together offensively in the second half.

The Bruins extended their lead after the break. Sam Orme’s early second-half basket helped Belmont build momentum, while Jack Smiley and Isaiah West added key scores as the Bruins pushed their advantage. A 10–0 run later in the half put Belmont in control at 72–51, highlighted by a Lundblade three-pointer.

Belmont’s defense continued to limit Middle Tennessee’s opportunities in the closing minutes. Jenkins’ late steal and layup helped seal the result, and the final score stood at 83–62. The win marked Belmont’s fifth consecutive road victory this season.

McClain led Belmont with 20 points; Lundblade added 15, and Scharnowski provided an early spark. For Middle Tennessee, Alston was a focal point inside and emphasized the team’s intention to learn from the loss and improve going forward.

The game was a clear defensive and offensive performance by Belmont and provided both teams with takeaways as they move deeper into the season.