Jan. 20, 2005

Mobile improves win streak to 11 games with 98-89 win over Xavier

NEW ORLEANS, La. - As the old saying goes - throw out the records when these two teams play.

Xavier University gave Mobile all they could handle and them some on Thursday night in The Barn but, it was Mobile who held strong and survived with the 98-89 road victory.

The Rams (17-3, 6-0) shot 63 percent from the floor in the second half as they rolled up 62 points in coming from behind to defeat conference rival Xavier (13-7, 3-4).

A back-and-forth, see-saw affair in the first half, Mobile was unable to pull away and found themselves behind at halftime for the first time this season in conference action. However, trailing 39-36 at the start of the second period, Mobile opened up the second half up on fire.

Gimel Lewis connected on six quick points to give Mobile a 42-41 lead at the 18:20 mark of the second half.

Chris Bolden then connected on three consecutive three-point shot as Mobile began to open up it’s lead to 51-46 just four minutes into the second half.

However, it was Lewis who finished with a game-high 33 points and 14 rebounds, that continued to make shot after shot for Mobile down the stretch and wouldn’t let them lose.

Tied at 85-85 with five minutes remaining, the Rams outscored the Gold Rush 13-4 to close out the game.

Larry Burgess finished with 21 points and Bolden scored another 16 for the Rams who have yet to lose in conference play.

Mobile will next be in action on Saturday night against Tougaloo College at home in Pharr Gymnasium. Tip-off is set for 7 p.m.

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