Former Harlan High School star Jordan Akal poured in 35 points as he led King University to a 97-85 win over Erskine in the opening round of the Conference Carolinas Tournament on Monday in Bristol.
There were 11 ties and 10 lead changes in the contest with the majority coming in the final 10 minutes. The Tornado used a 10-2 run to gain control with three minutes remaining.
Akal’s 35 points is a new season-high, and falls just shy of his career-high of 36. He also had six rebounds and four assists on the night.
King will play in the quarterfinals of the conference tournament Friday at 6 against fourth-seed Young Harris. It will be the first quarterfinal appearance for King since the 2020-21 season. The Tornado are 1-3 all-time against Young Harris, with the win coming last season in the first round of the conference tournament.
