December 5, 2014 -- CHARLOTTE, NC -- The Maroon Tigers grabbed an early lead and never looked back on their way a 70-66 win over Virginia Union, in the first game of the CIAA/SIAC Challenge.

The Panthers scored first, but after that it was all Maroon Tigers who led the rest of the way. On the strength of the season's best shooting percentage (46.8) and pressure defense, the Maroon Tigers held the Panthers well below their 86-point scoring average.

After building a 13-point second-half lead, Morehouse had to survive an 8-0 run by the Panthers, in the final minutes.  

Morehouse's first road victory was almost identical to last season's 70-64 win over the Panthers at Forbes Arena and improves the Tigers' record to 2-3. Virginia Union fell to 4-4.

Michael Scott led all scorers, with 16 points. He was joined in double figures by Javarius Gay and Tyrius Walker.

Gay had his best game of the season, scoring 11 points and grabbing a game-high 10 rebounds.

Walker improved on his .290 shooting percentage, connecting on 5 of 8 shots, for 15 points, to go with four assists.

Morehouse has a season-best 53 percent shooting from the three-point line, with Gay and Walker leading the way.

Franky Johnson led four Panthers in double figures, with 15 points.

Morehouse will take on the Johnson C. Smith Golden Bulls, on their home court, Saturday. JCSU (3-3) beat Tuskegee (2-3) 87-77, Friday.