BELMONT, N.C.- Queens University of Charlotte was defeated by conference rival Belmont Abbey College in an away game tonight 88-69 at Wheeler Center. The Royals fall to 5-12 in conference play and 6-19 overall.

Belmont Abbey sophomore forward Richard Barbee led all scorers with 25 points as the Crusaders men's basketball team extended its winning streak to seven-the third highest in school history.The Abbey improves to 18-7 overall and 14-4 in Conference Carolinas.

The Royals found themselves having trouble connecting on shots in the first half shooting 33% from the floor. The second half proved to be a different story as they improved to 65% but it was not enough to make a comeback.

Queens was led by Daniel Bailey's 18 points. He just missed registering a double double with nine rebounds. Reggie Hopkins added 15 points and five assists, while Patrick Fox contributed 11 as the Royals shot 44.8 percent (26-58) from the floor on the game.

For Belmont, Chad Patus posted a double double with 19 points and ten rebounds. Senior guard Jonathan Jackson added 13 points, two assists and a steal.

Queens will be back in action on Tuesday, February 24 against Mount Olive College. Tip off is set for 7:30 p.m.