MEMPHIS, Tenn. – Mississippi College men's basketball kicked off Gulf South Conference play with a 57-46 victory over Christian Brothers University on Thursday night at Canale Arena. The win improved the Choctaws' overall record to 5-2 and gave them a 1-0 mark in GSC action.

Junior guard Rashad Bolden, who made his return to the court after an injury layoff, led Mississippi College with 23 points. Bolden, a preseason All-GSC selection and the second-leading scorer in Division II last season, played 36 minutes and added eight rebounds and two assists.

Tyshun Briscoe also contributed, scoring 13 points and grabbing three rebounds in 34 minutes of play. The Choctaws were able to secure the win with strong defense and clutch free-throw shooting. Mississippi College shot 88.2% from the free-throw line, making 15 of 17 attempts, including 9 of 10 in the second half.

The game was tightly contested throughout, with MC holding a 29-24 lead at halftime. Christian Brothers (4-2, 0-1 GSC) kept the game close in the second half, but the Choctaws' defense, led by Bolden and Tyree Bracey, proved to be the difference. Bracey contributed defensively with eight rebounds and two steals.

MC held Christian Brothers to 46 points on 36.7% shooting, forcing the Buccaneers into 14 turnovers, which led to 12 points off turnovers. Christian Brothers' top scorer was forward Jordan Latham, who finished with 12 points.

Mississippi College will next face Union University (Tenn.) on Saturday, Dec. 7, at 4 p.m. CT in Jackson, Tennessee.

Box Score:

Notable Players:

• Rashad Bolden (Mississippi College): 23 points, 8 rebounds
• Tyshun Briscoe (Mississippi College): 13 points, 3 rebounds
• Jordan Latham (Christian Brothers): 12 points

The Choctaws will look to build on this victory as they head into their next GSC matchup against Union.