NEW ORLEANS, La. – William Carey raced out to a fast start and never looked back, rolling past Southern University of New Orleans 83-70 on Thursday night.

"Tonight, we were very consistent in transition and also won the rebound battle against a much bigger opponent," said Head Coach Steve Knight. "Another good job defensively from our guys. Really happy with the start that we have had and hopefully we will continue to improve as the season progresses."
 
The Crusaders opened with nine unanswered points before SUNO finally scored at the two-minute mark. The Knights briefly surged ahead, taking a 13-11 lead with 14 minutes left, but the momentum didn't last long.
 
Carey steadied, hit four straight free throws, and a minute later Javeon Gordon buried a three to push the lead to seven. Back-to-back steals from Makeem Roberts and Gordon turned into five quick points, stretching the advantage to 12 with nine minutes remaining in the half.
 
SUNO cut the deficit to eight, but the Crusaders closed strong. Carey led by as many as 21 and took a 57-37 lead into halftime after forcing 16 turnovers and shooting 57% from deep and 59% from the field.
 
The second half offered more of the same. The Knights never got closer than 12 as Carey's pressure defense continued to dictate the game. WCU forced 23 turnovers on the night and turned them into 42 points. The bench added another 44.
 
Troy Dunn led all scorers with 23 points. Gordon finished with 15, and Malik Franklin added 13.
 
Carey returns to action Saturday, Nov. 15, traveling to Pineville, La., to face Louisiana Christian. Tip-off is set for 3 p.m.