Harrogate, TN -- Lincoln Memorial men's basketball closed out the calendar year with an 80–69 victory over Lees-McRae on New Year's Eve, using active defense and balanced scoring to secure the final non-conference win of the season.

The Railsplitters shot 48.3 percent from the field (28-of-58) and matched the Bobcats with five made three-pointers, while converting 19-of-24 free throws for 79.2 percent at the line. Lincoln Memorial finished with 29 total rebounds and scored 40 points in the paint.

Defense proved to be a key factor, as the Railsplitters forced 22 Lees-McRae turnovers and turned those miscues into 32 points off turnovers. Lincoln Memorial also recorded nine steals, disrupting the Bobcats' offensive rhythm throughout the game.

Walter Campbell led all scorers with 21 points, shooting an efficient 6-of-7 from the floor and 9-of-10 at the free-throw line. He added six rebounds in 27 minutes of action. Nate Mims and Ashton Pennamon each contributed 10 points, with Mims also pulling down seven rebounds and Pennamon adding three assists.

Another strong performance came from Armon Jarrard, who finished with 11 points on 4-of-6 shooting, including 2-of-4 from beyond the arc. Emmanuel James controlled the glass with eight rebounds to go along with six points, while Jayden Spearman chipped in eight points off the bench.

Lincoln Memorial's bench accounted for 24 points, providing valuable depth as the Railsplitters maintained control down the stretch. The defense also held Lees-McRae to 29 percent shooting from three-point range and limited second-chance opportunities despite both teams finishing with 29 rebounds.

Lincoln Memorial was paced by a balanced effort highlighted by strong efficiency and production across the lineup.

Overall, Lincoln Memorial shot 48.3 percent from the field and received contributions throughout the roster, underscoring the team's depth and balance in the victory.