FLORENCE  - Christian Brothers shot 48 percent from the floor and made 14 three-point shots in a 78-65 victory over North Alabama Sunday afternoon at Flowers Hall. In the season-opener for both teams, the visiting Buccaneers used a 13-0 run midway through the opening half to break a 10-10 tie and never trailed again.

Jared Strode had a game-high 29 points for the Lions, but CBU had four players reach double digits in scoring and held a commanding 47-30 advantage in rebounding. The Bucs were 9-of-20 from three-point range in the first half and took a 41-25 lead at the break. Jimmy Palmer connected on a long-range three-pointer at the buzzer to give the visiting team the 16-point advantage.

In the second half, UNA used a 9-0 run to trim a 19-point deficit to 10 at 55-44 with 9:36 remaining. After forcing a turnover on the ensuing possession, the Lions had the opportunity to get the lead in single digits, but could not get the shot to fall.

Another three-pointer by Palmer pushed the lead back to 16 and UNA never challenged the lead again. Michael Drake led the Bucs with 22 points on the day.

Daviel Clements also reached double figures in scoring with 11 points for the Lions.

UNA will host Henderson State on Thursday. Tip-off is set for 8 p.m. at Flowers Hall.