WINCHESTER, Va. – The Christopher Newport University men's basketball overcame a sluggish first half and earned a hard-fought, 69-60 win at Shenandoah University.  CNU improves to 20-4 overall and 11-0 in USA South action; the first 20-win campaign since the 2005-06 season.

CNU trailed 30-24 at intermission after shooting only 6-25 from the floor and struggling to find consistent looks on the offensive end.  "We didn't play with the focus, intensity and level of enthusiasm that we will need to make a special run down the stretch," said Head Coach John Krikorian. 

Shenandoah's half-court offense dictated a pedestrian flow to the game during the first half, fortunately for the Captains, freshman guard Mike Cherry, converted 3-4 three-point attempts during the opening frame, the only CNU player to have more than one basket.

The second stanza opened with a 14-4 CNU run to tie the game at 38 just over five minutes into the action.  Senior guard, Conley Taylor, added a three-pointer and a layup to go with another three-pointer by Cherry to spark the run.  Cherry continued his hot shooting from beyond the arc connecting on 6 of 11 shots from beyond the arc.

"Overall, it was a lackluster performance by our guys and I take full responsibility for not being as prepared as we need to be," continued Krikorian.  While CNU struggled throughout the game, the win secured CNU's 20^th victory and maintains an undefeated record against conference opponents.  "At this time of the year it's about feeling good in how you play and maintaining that positive attitude," says Krikorian. 

The team returns to action on Saturday at the Freeman Center when they will play host to Averett in a 4:00 pm tip.  Christopher Newport University will host the Hall of Fame induction ceremony at half time of the game when six new members will be inducted.