THOMASVILLE — Tyson Anderson poured in 27 points and Thomas University held off a late rally to defeat Warner (Fla.) 85-84 in overtime on Thursday night's season opener at TU Gymnasium.

The Night Hawks led by as many as nine in the first half and held on down the stretch despite foul trouble and a furious comeback from the Royals. Jonathan Goldson added 14 points before fouling out, while Michael Smith chipped in 13 points and seven rebounds.

Thomas led 35–33 at halftime behind Anderson's 13 first-half points and balanced team defense that forced eight turnovers. The Night Hawks extended their advantage to as much as seven midway through the second period before Warner's Jack Voth, who finished with a game-high 25 points and 13 made free throws, brought the Royals within one in the closing minutes.

Nhine Wills added 11 rebounds and eight points, and Ryan Williams scored 10 points with six assists to pace the Thomas backcourt.

Thomas out-rebounded Warner 43–40 and shot 44 percent overall, including 76 percent from the free-throw line. The Night Hawks' bench contributed 24 points, led by solid stretches from Kaleb Taylor and Grant Raven.

Thomas returns to action this Saturday when they travel to face Coastal Georgia at 4:00 p.m.