Men's Basketball downs Cleary, 96-77, to open 2026

(Lansing, MI) - The Rochester Christian men's basketball team began 2026, getting back in the win column with a 96-77 win over WHAC opponent Cleary. The Warriors scored 48 points in both halves on their way to the 19 point win. RCU moves to 10-4 on the year and 5-3 in conference play. 

FIRST HALF

Darnell Turner Jr. got the scoring started for RCU with a three-pointer, with the two teams starting the half scoring back and forth. Tyler Allen was able to tie and regained the lead with a pair of free throws to make it 11-10. James Fisher and Tymias Williams would each add a couple of scores, as well as Linden Holder making an "and-1". 

Tyler Allen began what would be a 21-12 run over the final seven minutes of the half, which included Tymias Williams scoring eight straight in that stretch. 

SECOND HALF

Tymias Williams scored the first four points of the second half for RCU as they were able to build the lead out to 25. Darnell Turner Jr. continued with his scoring as he put up seven of RCU's 12 points in a 3:36 minute stretch. 

Cleary was able to get the Warriors' lead down to 10 points, before RCU ended the game scoring 32 points to the Cougars 20. Tyler Allen scored eight of 10 points during that stretch and Darnell Turner Jr. scoring six of the final eight points. 

TOP PERFORMERS

All five RCU Warriors starters scored in double figures with Darnell Turner Jr. leading the way with a career-high 30 points on 90% shooting. Tymias Williams and Tyler Allen were the next two scorers with 21 and 16 points, respectively. Williams led the way with five assists, with Turner Jr. and Linden Holder each having four. 

Darnell Turner Jr. would also lead the team in rebounds with nine, while Tyler Allen brought down seven rebounds. Turner Jr. created four steals, while Tymias Williams had three. 

UP NEXT

The Warriors will be back in action when they return home for the first time in 2026, hosting the Saints from Siena Heights on Wednesday, January 7, at 7:30 PM.