THOMASVILLE, Ga. – The Thomas University men's basketball team defeated Xavier University of Louisiana, 72-61, Friday night at the TU Gymnasium to open the 2019-20 season. 

Xavier is receiving votes in the NAIA Division I Men's Basketball Coaches' Top 25 Preseason Poll.

After taking the 39-31 advantage in the first half, TU outscored Xavier 33-30 in the second period to earn the 72-61 win. 

Ivan Tomic was one board short of a double-double, recording 15 points and nine rebounds. Joshua Scott came off the bench to led the Night Hawks offensively with 21 points, also adding four rebounds and a block. Trint Bryant knocked down eight free throws on his way to 10 points. 

The Night Hawks hit 41.1 percent (23-56) from the field, starting the game with a hot 46.7 percent (14-30) in the first half. 

TU's defense held Xavier to 21.1 percent (4-19) from three, including 1-10 from distance in the second period. 

The Night Hawks next hit the road to face Life University (Ga.) in Marietta, Ga., Nov. 5 at 6 p.m. Life is also receiving votes in the NAIA D-I Preseason Coaches Poll.