ROCKY MOUNT, N.C. (Jan. 3, 2026) — Pfeiffer University's comeback bid fell just short in an 80-78 setback at N.C. Wesleyan in the USA South men's basketball opener for both teams on Saturday afternoon at Everett Gymnasium.
Pfeiffer (4–8, 0–2 USA South) erased an early 16–5 deficit and surged ahead multiple times behind hot perimeter shooting and a balanced offensive effort. The Falcons knocked down 12 three-pointers and shot 49 percent from the field, keeping pressure on the Battling Bishops throughout.
Sean Sucarichi led Pfeiffer with 15 points on 7-of-10 shooting, while
Clayton Robinson and
Doug Smith each added 14. Robinson hit four threes and dished out four assists, and Smith anchored the interior with seven rebounds.
Zach Sloan chipped in 11 points and five assists, and
Justin Gaten provided eight points and seven boards off the bench.
After trailing 40–36 at halftime, Pfeiffer opened the second half with renewed energy, briefly taking the lead before N.C. Wesleyan (10–3, 2–0) responded behind a 21-point performance from James Jones and 20 points from Ro'Mello Pegues. The Bishops' ability to convert at the free-throw line — going 14 of 21 — proved decisive in the closing minutes.
Pfeiffer's bench outscored N.C. Wesleyan's reserves 21–34, and the Falcons dominated the offensive glass 12–5, generating 18 second-chance points. But 14 turnovers, including several during key stretches, ultimately swung momentum back to the home team.
The Falcons continue USA South play next week with a 7:00 p.m. road game at Methodist on Tuesday, Jan. 6.
