The Skyhawks charged to an early lead against Bethel and never looked back as they defeated the Wildcats, 87-46. They led for the entire 40 minutes, keeping Bethel down by at least 20 points for the last 23.

Junior center Cleve Woodfork scored a career- high 27 points to lead the Skyhawks. The team displayed great balance on offense as 11 of the 13 players who played in the game were able to score.

Woodfork was joined in double- figures by Jared Newson with 13 points and Chris Carter, who scored 10 off the bench.

Defense was the key to the dominant victory for the Skyhawks. They played aggressively and frustrated Wildcat ball handlers throughout the game.

“We haven’t been able to deny the wings and tonight we were better at it,” said Bret Campbell, the Skyhawks’ head coach.

“We forced 33 turnovers and were able to score some easy baskets. Maybe it will give us some confidence and a much needed shot in the arm to get out in the passing lanes and get those easy baskets,” Campbell said.

The Skyhawks jumped on the Wildcats early as they scored the game’s first five points and 12 of the first 15.

By forcing Bethel to give up the ball, UTM was able to score on fast break opportunities, adding to their comfortable advantage. With 2:59 remaining until halftime, the Skyhawks held a 42-22 lead. The score at the break was 46-25 in favor of UTM.

Cleve Woodfork led all scorers in the first half with 19 points. The Skyhawks forced 17 Wildcat turnovers in the first half which helped them to a 22-4 advantage in points off turnovers.

After the break, the Skyhawks did not let up as they increased their lead to 60-31 less than five minutes into the second half. As a result of his team’s comfortable lead, Coach Campbell was able to give important playing time to his bench players.

“It was nice to give the younger players some time on the floor,” Campbell said. Along with Carter’s 10 points, the Skyhawk reserves were led by sophomore guard Justin Flatt’s nine points.

UTM leads the all-time series with Bethel 29-22.

The Skyhawks will continue their road stint taking on Arkansas State, IPFW, Portland and Ole Miss.