NEWPORT NEWS, Va. - The Apprentice School men's basketball overcame an early deficit and held on late to defeat Thomas Nelson 77-69 on Sunday evening to conclude the MLK Classic.

ON THE COURT: The Apprentice School held a 16-15 lead halfway through the half after a layup by Caleb Mielewski. Thomas Nelson then went on a 12-0 run over the next three minutes to take a 27-18 lead. After Marion Moore sunk a layup to end the scoreless drought, the Gators responded with a 13-5 run over the next four minutes to take a comfortable margin. The Gators used a strong offensive half by shooting 58% from the field to take an 11-point lead at the half. The Builders shot 41% from the floor and was led by Marion Moore's 13 points. The Builders roared back with a 13-0 run to start the second half to retake the lead. Despite a three by the Gators, the Builders continued to press on the gas pedal extending the run to 23-3 to extend their largest lead to 10. Down the stretch, the Gators were able to climb within four but the Builders forced turnovers and made their free throws to clinch the game.

BEHIND THE BOX SCORE: 

• Marion Moore led all scorers with 24 points. He added 10 rebounds for a double-double.
• Miles Barrett came off the bench to add 12 points, all on three-pointers. He also added 5 assists for the Builders.
• Corey Joyner added 11 points and eight assists.
• Drew Walton fell short of a double-double with eight points and 11 boards.
• The Builders forced 21 turnovers and converted them into 25 points.
• The Apprentice School used their size and dominated in the paint with a 44-24 advantage.
• Thomas Nelson was led by Vincent Collins, who came off the bench to add 17 points.

The Builders will hit the road for five consecutive games beginning with a matchup against Valley Forge on Saturday, January 26 at 1 p.m. After the straight conference games, the Builders face Bluefield State in a non-conference matchup before hosting Carolina Christian in their season finale on February 16.