SIOUX FALLS, South Dakota -- WVU Tech men's basketball opened up its run in the NAIA DII National Championship with a 90-79 victory over No. 8 College of Ozarks Thursday evening in Sioux Falls. The Golden Bears will next face No. 5 Briar Cliffe University for a second round game Friday at 10:15 p.m. (EST).

Sophomore Junior Arrey helped lead the team behind an effort of 18 points and nine rebounds. Arrey also dished two assists and had a steal.

Senior Brandon Shingles poured in 17 points, including five three-pointers, and pulled down five rebounds to go with three assists.

Two other Golden Bears scored in double figures including seniors Elisha Boone and Tommy Collins who had 15 points each. Boone also had seven rebounds and four assists while Collins had three rebounds and three assists.

Sophomore Tamon Scruggs came off the bench to record nine points and six rebounds for the Gold and Blue.

Ozark was led by Ethan Davidson who posted a game-high 31 points.

As a team, Tech shot 43.4 percent (33-for-76) while their opponent finished at 43.6 percent (24-for-55). The Golden Bears held the advantage under the boards, 44-38.

Briar Cliffe University defeated No. 4 Olivet Nazarene, 103-88, to advance to the second round and face Tech Friday.