MEN'S BASKETBALL DEFEATS BRIDGEPORT, 78-76

BRIDGEPORT, Conn. - Bryant junior guard Chris Burns scored a career-high 29 points and handed out three assists to lead the Bryant men's basketball team to a 78-76 win over the University of Bridgeport Saturday in the first round of the Purple Knight Classic.

The Bulldogs led 38-34 at the half thanks to 41.2 percent shooting from the floor - including 9 of 17 from three-point range.  Bryant made 16 of 27 three's for the game and finished the game shooting 42.6 percent from the floor.

John Williams had 22 points and six three's while Jon Ezeokoli added eight points and three assists.  Dan Hammond had a big game, finishing with seven rebounds, six assists, three steals and pair of blocks. 

Bryant will face NYIT on Sunday at Bridgeport.