Battling Bishops take 2007 Roger Taylor Invitational crown

Rocky Mount, NC - Behind a team-high 33 points from sophomore guard Jarmel Arrington, the Battling Bishops of North Carolina Wesleyan were crowned champions of the 2007 Roger Taylor Invitational after posting an impressive 101-83 victory over defending champion Piedmont College.  The championship marks the eighth time that Wesleyan has won the 20-year tournament and the first time in the past five years.  For his efforts, Arrington was named Most Valuable Player after averaging 23.5 points per game.

Wesleyan raced out to a 57-39 lead at halftime after shooting over 51 percent from the floor. Arrington led the way with 18 points, while Piedmont's Jake Baldwin netted 19.

The Bishops held their biggest lead at 72-49 with just over 13 minutes remaining.  The Lions pulled as close as 11 at 78-67 on a three-pointer by Samuel Coppage at the 6:58 mark.  Wesleyan, however, countered with a 12-1 run over the next two minutes that effectively put the game out of reach.  The pivotal run was highlighted by two of Arrington's seven treys.

In addition to Arrington's performance, Adam Coleman had a double-double for the Bishops with 15 points and 10 rebounds en route to All-Tournament honors.  He was joined by teammate Lenny Hall, who poured in 20 points and dished out eight assists.  Buddy Williams netted 11 points off the bench.

For Piedmont, Baldwin finished with 36 points and eight rebounds, while Jake Green netted 11 points and recorded seven assists.  Both were named to the All-Tournament team.

In the consolation game, Catholic downed Maine-Presque Isle by an 80-38 score.  Jason Banzhaf was named All-Tournament after turning in 18 points and five boards.

Below is the 2007 Roger Taylor Invitational All-Tournament team.

Jarmel Arrington - MVP - NC Wesleyan
Adam Coleman - NC Wesleyan
Lenny Hall - NC Wesleyan
Jake Baldwin - Piedmont
Jake Green - Piedmont
Jason Banzhaf - Catholic
 

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