COLUMBUS, Ohio – The Capital University men's basketball team (1-0, 0-0 OAC) tipped-off the 2023-24 season against Kenyon (0-1, 0-0 NCAC) on Wednesday night at The Capital Center. The Comets made use of a strong first half to walk away with the win, 80-75. 

HOW IT HAPPENED
Capital broke out to a big lead early, taking a 19-6 advantage in the first 10 minutes of action. Nate Gerber and Carter Combs led the offensive, Gerber scoring seven and Combs having five. On the defensive end, the Comets kept the Owls contained, forcing a 1-for-11 from the field. Cap kept it rolling in the latter portion of the first period and would lead 43-26 at the half. Combs added seven to bring his total to 12, joined by freshman Baden Forup who would finish the half 5-of-5 with 10 points. 

Despite Kenyon's best efforts to crawl back into the game in the second half, the Comets kept the Owls at bay, taking the final score of 80-75. The Owls scored nearly 50 points in the second half, but the Comets did just enough by converting free throws and their most important chances when they mattered most to hold on for the win. 

THE NUMBERS
Freshman, Baden Forup had a debut to remember, finishing 8-for-10 from the floor going for 17 points. He added seven rebounds, one assist, and two blocks in his first collegiate game. 

Carter Combs picked up where he left off with a 19-point performance to open the season. He was 7-for-12 from the floor and added a rebound, three assists and three steals. 

Alex Eyink put up 13 points, seven of which came from the free throw line. He added four boards, and an assist. 

Nate Gerber was also in double figures, finishing with 11 points. He added two rebounds and two assists. 

McKane Finkenbine had a positive first game of the year, scoring nine points and adding a career high nine rebounds and five assists. 

Others to score points tonight included Ryan Suever, Deon Miller, Charles Knuckles and Luke Kuhlman. 

UP NEXT 
The Comets will head off Richmond, Indiana over the weekend, playing in the Melissa Johnson Hope Classic hosted by Earlham College. Capital will start off by playing Olivet in another battle of the Comets on Saturday at 2 p.m.