HARTSVILLE, South Carolina– The 2025 Conference Challenge between Conference Carolinas and the South Atlantic Conference opened Friday afternoon with a high-energy match up, as Ferrum College fell 81–73 to host Coker University. Ferrum was paced by Alan Kane, who scored 19 points on 8-of-13 shooting. Gerren Jones recorded 14 points, seven rebounds, and four steals, and Rodrigo Farias added 13 points. Abdulh Diaby contributed 12 points, six rebounds, and two blocks in a strong interior performance.

RECORDS
Ferrum 0-1
Coke 1-0

THE BASICS
Ferrum, representing Conference Carolinas, controlled much of the first half and carried a 38–34 advantage into the locker room after late scores from Alfredo Abel-Rivera and Alan Kane. The Panthers extended their lead to 41–34 early in the second half, but Coker—competing for the South Atlantic Conference—responded with a decisive offensive surge. The Cobras shot  57.1% from the field an 53.8% from three after halftime to swing momentum and secure the win.

Despite forcing 16 turnovers and matching Coker in bench production, Ferrum was out shot 51.9% to 40.0% from the field and 41.7% to 34.8% from three. Coker also held a 37–34 advantage on the glass.

After Ferrum tied the game 52–52 with 12:36 remaining, Coker responded with a 21–7 run to create separation. The Panthers trimmed the margin to six in the final minute, but the Cobras closed out the game making two free throws and a layup to seal the win..

KEY STATS
Ferrum: Kane 19 pts; Jones 14 pts, 7 reb; Farias 13pts Diaby 12 pts, 6 reb, 2 blocks
Coker: Isayah Owens 29 pts, 8 assists, 3 steals; Zundra Jackson 13 pts, 9 reb, 3 steals

UP NEXT
Coach Patrick Corrigan's team will play Georgia Southwestern tomorrow in game two of the Conference Challenge. Tip-off is set for 2 pm in Hartsville, South Carolina.