Louisburg College men's basketball took on Catawba Valley Community College Monday night for their first match-up of the year. Last year Louisburg defeated #2 Catawba Valley in the Region X semi-final. Tonight produced the same result with an 81-70 Hurricanes win.

Louisburg lead 48-30 at halftime.

"We executed defensively and played harder in the first half than we have in a long time," said Louisburg head coach Bryan Bagwell. "The guys did a great job in preparation and it showed tonight."

Catawba Valley won the second half 40-33, but it was not enough to overcome the early Hurricane lead. 

Malik Bryant was 11-16 from the floor for a team high 29 points. He was followed by Anthony Harris and Keonte Bradley with 12 and 10 respectively.

Louisburg only made 19 of their 35 free throws, but it was just enough as the Hurricanes held on.

After facing Bryant & Stratton this Wednesday, men's basketball match up with Catawba Valley in Hickory this Saturday. The game tips off at 3 pm.