YOUNG HARRIS, Ga. | The Mountain Lions Men's Basketball opened the 2025-26 season with a 1-1 record after hosting the Conference Challenge at The Harp Recreation & Commencement Center. The Mountain Lions earned a convincing win over Middle Georgia State University on Friday (Nov. 14) before falling to the University of North Georgia on Saturday (Nov. 15). 

Game 1: (Young Harris 74, Middle Georgia State 64) 

The Mountain Lions started their season strong, defeating Middle Georgia State 74-64 on Friday evening. Young Harris built an eight-point halftime lead and maintained control throughout the second half. 

INSIDE THE BOX SCORE:

• Carl Cleveland delivered a dominant performance, scoring 31 points on 11-of-16 shooting while adding 12 rebounds for a double-double. 

• Christian Drummer added 19 points, shooting 7-of-10 from the field and grabbing four rebounds. 

• Cameron Bleshoy controlled the glass with a team-high 14 rebounds and chipped in eight points. 

• Young Harris shot 52.9% from the field and scored 38 points in the paint. 

• The Mountain Lions converted 21 points off turnovers and added 14 fast-break points. 

• Middle Georgia State was led by Krishen Atwal, who scored 18 points and hit four three-pointers. 

Game 2: (North Georgia 77, Young Harris 71) 

On Saturday, Young Harris battled in a back-and-forth contest but fell 77-71 to North Georgia. The game featured eight ties and 16 lead changes before the Nighthawks pulled away late. 

INSIDE THE BOX SCORE (North Georgia):

• Carl Cleveland turned in a career night, scoring 39 points on 15-of-20 shooting, including three three-pointers, while going a perfect 6-of-6 at the free-throw line. 

• Justin Payne added 16 points and four assists, shooting 7-of-11 from the field. 

• Cameron Bleshoy contributed six points and six rebounds. 

• Young Harris shot 53.8% from the field and scored 30 points in the paint, but North Georgia capitalized at the free-throw line, going 20-of-23 (87.0%). 

• The Nighthawks hit nine three-pointers and were led by AJ White, who scored 16 points. 

UP NEXT:

The Mountain Lions return to action on Wednesday (Nov. 19) when they travel to face UVA Wise. Tip-off is set for 6:00 PM.