According to Alabama wildlife officials, fewer than 500 black bears live in Alabama. About 250 roam the northern part of the state, 150 are in the south, and a few more are scattered elsewhere.

Mercer is coming off a 2-3 week. They dropped a pair of midweek games, one to Alabama State and the other to Kennesaw State. The Bears rebounded with a series win over Tennessee Tech.

According to Alabama wildlife officials, fewer than 500 black bears live in Alabama. About 250 roam the northern part of the state, 150 are in the south, and a few more are scattered elsewhere.

The Bears' record in SoCon play is 6-12, and their record is 7-6 against non-conference opponents. Mercer is the top team in the SoCon averaging 34.2 points in the paint.

Chattanooga is third in the SoCon in team defense, allowing 56.0 points while holding opponents to 37.7% shooting. The Bears are 3-11 against SoCon teams. Mercer is 3-4 in one-possession games.

Western Carolina Catamounts (8-21, 4-14 SoCon) vs. Mercer Bears (13-18, 6-12 SoCon) Asheville, North Carolina; Friday, 5 p.m. EST BETMGM SPORTSBOOK LINE: Bears -7.5; over/under is 153.5 BOTTOM ...