MILLIGAN COLLEGE, TN (February 1, 2005) --- The Milligan College men's basketball team traveled to Bluefield College to take on the top team in the Appalachian Athletic Conference and nearly walked away with an upset, but fell 64-59 to the 11-3 (AAC) Ramblin' Rams.

"We've had a number of close games this season, and just continue to stay positive," said assistant coach Tae Norwood.

The Buffs lost senior standout Craig Emmert at the three minute mark in the second half, the most crucial point in the game and Bluefield took control on the inside.

Freshman point guard Yony Kifle led Milligan in scoring with 16 points while Emmert added 13 points. Senior Jordan Simmons  scored twelve points.

Milligan shot well in the first half going 71 percent from three-point range and 50 percent from the field.

Next for the Buffs is a non-conference home game against Warren Wilson at 7:00pm on February 3.