THOMASVILLE, Ga. – The Thomas University men's basketball team downed the University of Virgin Island, 89-47, Wednesday at the TU Gymnasium.
 
The Night Hawks are receiving votes in the NAIA Top-25 Coaches' Poll after starting the season 11-2 overall and 5-0 in the Sun Conference.
 
TU took a commanding 43-26 first-half lead Wednesday, then finished strong, downing UVI by 42 points.
 
Sixteen Night Hawks saw action in the game, led by 12 points and five boards from Shakari Williams. Mohammed Abubakar recorded two blocks and six rebounds while hitting 5-of-6 from the field on his way to 10 points. Kevon Zilaee also swatted two shots.
 
Tim Williamson and Jordan Booker each dished out four assists, and Booker and Deonta Jones each posted four steals.
 
The Night Hawks outrebounded UVI 51-37 and forced 20 turnovers, swiping 18 steals. TU's defense held UVI to 29.1 percent (16-55) shooting from the field, and 25.0 percent (4-16) from long range.
 
Thomas next plays in the Embry-Riddle Classic in Daytona Beach, Fla., facing host Embry-Riddle Friday, Dec. 16 at 7:30 p.m., then battling Davis & Elkins at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 17.