BUENA VISTA, Va. — The Southern Virginia University men's basketball team secured its first victory of the 2025 season, defeating Eastern Mennonite University 71–63 and extending its winning streak over the Royals to eight straight games.

The Knights showcased a balanced offensive attack and a dominant defensive presence—especially at the rim—posting nine total blocks on the night. Tillman Johnson and Abe Connolly led the way in the paint, each swatting three shots, setting the tone defensively.

Freshman Mason Hunter powered the offense with a breakout performance, scoring 20 points on an efficient 7–10 shooting, including 4–6 from beyond the arc. Johnson added 16 points, while DJ Green chipped in 15, giving Southern Virginia three double-digit scorers.

Jude Ballstaedt opened the scoring with the first four points of the night before both teams traded baskets in a back-and-forth first half that saw six lead changes. Late threes from Johnson and Hunter allowed the Knights to take a 34–29 lead into the break.

Southern Virginia stretched its advantage to nine early in the second half thanks to a Hyrum McConkie layup, but EMU battled back to cut the lead to two. Each time the Royals threatened, the Knights responded—Hunter and Johnson hit key shots, while Green drilled back-to-back jumpers to restore a double-digit cushion.

In the closing minutes, Southern Virginia sealed the win at the free-throw line with perfect execution, going 14-for-14 from the stripe to keep the Royals at arm's length and close out the 71–63 victory.

The Knights now turn their attention to their next matchup, a short trip to Lexington to face Washington and Lee University on Tuesday, November 25. Southern Virginia won last year's meeting 97–88 and looks to continue that momentum on the road.

For all the latest updates on Southern Virginia University men's basketball, visit knightathletics.com and follow @knight_mbb on Instagram.