Rivers has 15 points, Mercer dominates Alcorn State 68-43

MACON, Ga. (AP) Demetre Rivers made 9 of 11 free throws to total 15 points as Mercer dominated Alcorn State 68-43 on Saturday for its best start in 30 years.

The only loss for Mercer (8-1) this season was at Davidson 77-71. This is the Bears best record since joining Division I in 1973 and the program's top overall since going 9-1 during the 1966-67 season.

Stephon Jelks and Jestin Lewis had 10 points apiece as 12 Bears hit the scoring column.

Mercer was ahead 36-17 at the break and won the second half 32-26. The Bears controlled the floor, hitting 22 of 45 (48.9%) field goal attempts while limiting Alcorn State to 13-of-46 (28.3%) shooting. Mercer also won the rebound battle 37-23. The Bears picked up 26 points in the paint while holding Alcorn State to 16.

Tamarcio Wilson and Marquis Vance had 10 points apiece to lead Alcorn State (0-7).