CHARLOTTE, N.C. - The No. 4 Queens University of Charlotte men's basketball team (6-1, 3-1 SAC) suffered their first loss of the season falling 81-74 to Tusculum University inside Curry Arena on Wednesday night. The loss snapped their six-game winning streak and the Pioneers improved to 5-2 on the season and 5-0 in SAC play.

The first half of the game was a close, back-and-forth battle between the Royals and the Pioneers. Neither team led by more than six points. However, a 5-0 run in the last 2:43 of the half for the Pioneers gave them a narrow 38-33 lead heading into the half.

The Royals came roaring out of the break, using a 14-5 run in the first three minutes to take a 44-43 lead over the Pioneers with 17:09 remaining. The Pioneers would quickly respond to retake the lead, one they would never surrender again. The game remained close throughout the second half, but the Royals never could recapture the lead and eventually fell to the Pioneers 81-74.

Kenny Dye led the Royals in points with 22 and assists with six. Gavin Rains led the Royals with nine rebounds. Jamari Smith scored 14 points, while shooting 3-6 from 3-point range. BJ McLaurin provided valuable minutes off the bench, scoring 12 points.

The Royals will be back in action this weekend as they travel to Mars Hill, for another conference matchup at 4 p.m. Be sure to follow the Royals men's basketball program on Twitter and Instagram to stay up to date on all the latest news and updates surrounding the team. Fans are also encouraged to follow Queens Athletics on social media @QueensAthletics to follow all of the Royals sports in action.