In an action-packed basketball matchup, the USC Aiken Pacers experienced a split against Georgia College. The men’s team clinched a narrow 71-68 victory, enhancing their Peach Belt Conference record to 1-1. Standout performances included Rhyjon Blackwell, who scored 27 points, and Simeon German with 12 points and nine rebounds. Unfortunately, the women’s team faced a tough challenge, losing 60-46, leaving them searching for answers as they approach their next game. Both teams aim to recover quickly as they look ahead to their upcoming matchup against Flagler.
In an action-packed day of basketball, the city of Aiken saw the USC Aiken Pacers facing off against Georgia College. The highlight of the evening came from the men’s team, which clinched a thrilling 71-68 victory at the Convocation Center. This win was significant as it improved the Pacers’ overall record to 8-4 and marked their first win in the Peach Belt Conference play, bringing their conference record to 1-1.
The excitement didn’t stop as the men’s team displayed remarkable resilience. After trailing early on with a score of 13-4, the Pacers regrouped and showcased some impressive teamwork. Leading the charge was Rhyjon Blackwell, who lit up the scoreboards with an astounding 27 points and also contributed seven rebounds alongside three steals. His performance was instrumental in narrowing the gap and ultimately pushing the Pacers to victory.
But Blackwell wasn’t alone in this success. Simeon German provided solid support with 12 points and nine rebounds, nearly snagging himself a double-double, while also showcasing his defensive skills with three blocks. Jalen McCoy followed closely behind, adding 11 points, seven rebounds, and a couple of blocks of his own, proving to be a crucial asset to the team. Rounding out the scoring, Davion Cunningham collected 10 points and nine rebounds, just shy of a double-double.
The bench made contributions too, with Dwight Canady, Jr. adding five points, and both Cam Perkins and Mason Grant getting in on the action, adding two points each to the scoreboard. Grant also showcased his defensive prowess with two blocks.
In a nail-biting finish, both teams exchanged leads in the last few minutes, leaving fans on the edge of their seats. The Pacers managed to convert 19 of 67 field goal attempts and were stellar at the free-throw line, sinking 28 of 37 free throws, which ultimately made all the difference.
The women started the game in a bit of a slump, trailing by the score of 9-2 early on. However, a quick jump shot and an old-fashioned three-point play by Riley Simmons ignited some life into the team. Leading the ladies was Rhiannon Saller, who put up 11 points and accounted for five blocks, making her a standout performer on the court.
Kendall Parker and Paris Webster each found their rhythm, scoring nine points apiece, while Simmons added eight points of her own. Despite accumulating a remarkable 44 rebounds in the game, including 14 offensive boards, the women struggled to capitalize on those opportunities, shooting only 31% from the field with 18 of 58 attempts.
Even with several efforts to close the gap, the Pacers were unable to overcome a 55-46 deficit in the final quarter, leaving them looking for answers as they head into their next matchup.
The Pacers are looking to bounce back quickly as they prepare to face Flagler, with the men’s game slated for 5:30 p.m. and the women’s game at 2:30 p.m. this Wednesday. Both teams will be eager to take on their next opponents and continue building on their season. Let’s rally behind our Pacers!
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