Royals Fall at No. 21 Pikeville

 The Royals were tested on the road Wednesday night, falling 93–75 to No. 21 Pikeville at Appalachian Wireless Arena.

The Royals stayed competitive throughout the opening half, trailing 42–34 at the break, but Pikeville's shooting depth and efficiency proved to be the difference in the second half as the Bears pulled away.

Mason Lockhart led all scorers with a career night, pouring in 30 points on 12-of-19 shooting while adding seven rebounds. Livingston Cross also turned in a strong performance, finishing with 19 points and a team-high nine rebounds, giving The Royals a steady presence on the interior.

The Royals shot an even 50 percent from the field and battled on the glass, but Pikeville knocked down 16 three-pointers and shot over 55 percent from beyond the arc to maintain control. The Bears were led by Bradley Bunch and Zion Blevins, who scored 18 points apiece, while Pikeville placed five players in double figures.

Despite the final score, The Royals showed resilience against one of the nation's top teams, keeping pace early and competing until the final horn.

The Royals return to action on January 10 when they take on Tennessee Wesleyan.